I've just started using QDK, and would like to make a game where the user only has to use the provided verbs in the menus. But when an object can not be picked up then you can not USE it (from the menu), you have to TAKE it before you can USE it. Is there a way to menu USE the object without taking it ?

I have discovered that you can add to the rooms commands to USE the object, but you must type that in, I would like to avoid any typing if poss.

Try dragging and dropping the object onto another object - there should be a menu that comes up - or it could be automatic - so that you can use an object you haven't taken yet.