Explanation at your level:
Hello! Today we are learning the word 使う (tsukau). It means 'to use'. You use things every day! For example, you use a pencil to write. You use a chair to sit. You use a cup to drink. We use 使う when we put something to work for us. It's a very important word!
The verb 使う (tsukau) means 'to use'. It's used when you employ or operate something. For instance, you might use a computer for work (pasokon wo tsukau), or use a tool for a task. It's a versatile verb that applies to many objects and situations in daily life. Remember to use the correct particle 'o' (を) after the object you are using.
使う (tsukau) is a fundamental verb meaning 'to use' or 'to employ'. It can refer to using physical objects like a car (kuruma wo tsukau) or abstract concepts like time (jikan wo tsukau). It's a neutral verb, suitable for both casual and polite conversation when combined with appropriate verb endings. Mastering 使う is crucial for expressing a wide range of actions.
The verb 使う (tsukau) translates to 'to use', 'to employ', or 'to expend'. Its usage extends beyond simple object manipulation to include employing skills, resources, or even people. Pay attention to collocations like chikara wo tsukau (to use strength) or shiken wo tsukau (to use an exam). Understanding the context is key to grasping its full nuance, especially when distinguishing between using an object and employing someone.
使う (tsukau) is a polysemous verb with meanings ranging from 'to utilize' and 'to operate' to 'to expend' and 'to employ'. It can signify the practical application of tools, the strategic deployment of resources, or the engagement of human capital. Advanced usage might involve subtle implications of efficiency or wastefulness depending on the context. For example, muda ni tsukau (無駄に使う) means to use wastefully.
The verb 使う (tsukau) embodies the concept of agency and purpose in Japanese. Its etymology, linked to 'sending' or 'dispatching', hints at a deeper meaning of putting something into service. Beyond its common applications, it can denote the strategic allocation of assets, the exploitation of opportunities, or even the manipulation of situations. Mastery involves recognizing its subtle connotations in literary or specialized contexts, such as kōka wo tsukau (効果を使う - to leverage an effect).
Palabra en 30 segundos
- 使う (tsukau) is the fundamental Japanese verb for 'to use'.
- It applies to objects, time, money, skills, and more.
- It's a versatile, neutral verb suitable for most situations.
- Remember the basic pattern: [Object] + を + 使う.
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese verb 使う (tsukau). Think of it as the go-to word for 'to use' in English. It's incredibly versatile, covering everything from using a pen to using your time wisely. You'll encounter this verb everywhere, so getting a good grip on it is key to unlocking more Japanese conversations!
Basically, whenever you're employing something, putting it into action, or making it serve a purpose, you're likely using 使う. It’s not just about physical objects; you can use your skills, your money, or even your influence. It’s a core verb that forms the backbone of many daily interactions and expressions in Japanese. So, let's get ready to use 使う to understand Japanese better!
The word 使う (tsukau) has a long history, tracing its roots back to ancient Japanese. Its kanji character, 使, originally depicted a person (人) holding a tool or a flag (the top part, resembling a banner). This visually represented the idea of someone being sent or employed to do a task, hence 'to use' or 'to employ'.
Over centuries, the meaning evolved from this core idea of 'sending someone to do something' or 'being employed' to the broader sense of 'using' an object or resource. It’s fascinating how the concept of employment and utilization became intertwined. You can see similar roots in related words like shōnin (商人), meaning merchant or trader, someone who is employed to conduct business.
In classical Japanese, the verb might have had slightly different nuances, but the fundamental sense of 'putting something to work' or 'making use of something' has remained consistent. It's a testament to the enduring nature of core vocabulary in language evolution. The character 使 itself is a powerful reminder of the verb's origins in action and purpose.
使う is a workhorse verb in Japanese! You'll use it in countless everyday situations. Think about using tools like a hammer (kankin wo tsukau - 金槌を使う), or using your phone (keitai wo tsukau - 携帯を使う). It also applies to abstract things, like using your brain (atama wo tsukau - 頭を使う) or using your time (jikan wo tsukau - 時間を使う).
When it comes to formality, 使う is quite neutral. You can use it in casual chats with friends and also in more formal business settings without much worry. However, like many verbs, its politeness level is adjusted by the sentence ending. For instance, tsukaimasu (使います) is the polite form used in formal situations.
Common collocations include shokunin wo tsukau (職人を使う - to employ an artisan), chikara wo tsukau (力を使う - to use strength), and gengo wo tsukau (言語を使う - to use language). Understanding these common pairings will significantly boost your fluency!
使う pops up in some really interesting idioms and expressions that add color to the Japanese language!
1. Me wo tsukau (目を遣う): Literally 'to use eyes', but it means to cast one's eyes upon something, to glance at it, or to pay attention to it. Example: 彼は彼女の様子にそっと目を遣った。(Kare wa kanojo no yōsu ni sotto me wo yatta. - He subtly cast his eyes upon her condition.)
2. Kuchi wo tsukau (口を使う): This can mean to use one's mouth to speak, but more idiomatically, it refers to using flattery or persuasive speech, sometimes in a manipulative way. Example: 彼は巧みな口を使って、相手を説得した。(Kare wa takumi na kuchi wo tsukatte, aite wo settoku shita. - He used his skillful tongue to persuade the other party.)
3. Te wo tsukau (手を遣う): While it can mean to use one's hands, it often implies using a lot of effort or trouble to do something. Example: この料理を作るのに、ずいぶん手を遣った。(Kono ryōri wo tsukuru no ni, zuibun te wo tsukatta. - I went to a lot of trouble to make this dish.)
4. Ashi wo tsukau (足を使う): This means to go around on foot, to make footwork, often for business or investigation. Example: 情報を集めるために、足を使った。(Jōhō wo atsumeru tame ni, ashi wo tsukatta. - I used my feet to gather information.)
5. Kokoro wo tsukau (心を遣う): To be concerned about someone, to pay attention to their feelings, or to be thoughtful. Example: 彼はいつも周りの人々の心を遣っている。(Kare wa itsumo mawari no hitobito no kokoro wo yatte iru. - He is always considerate of the feelings of those around him.)
使う is a Group 1 verb (a 'u'-verb) in Japanese, meaning its stem ends in a 'u' sound. This affects how it conjugates. The dictionary form is 使う (tsukau). The polite form is 使います (tsukaimasu). The past tense is 使った (tsukatta), and the negative is 使わない (tsukawanai).
Pronunciation: The 'tsu' sound is like 'tsoo', and 'kai' is like 'kye'. The final 'u' is often very light or almost silent in casual speech. IPA: /tsɯ̥ᵝka̠ɯ̟ᵝ/. In American English, it sounds a bit like 'tsoo-kye-oo'. In British English, the 'u' sound might be slightly different, but the core is the same.
Rhyming words are tricky in Japanese as it's syllable-timed, but words ending in '-au' share a similar vowel sound, like kau (買う - to buy) or mau (舞う - to dance). Stress patterns are generally quite even across syllables.
Fun Fact
The kanji '使' originally depicted a person holding a banner, symbolizing someone being sent or employed. This original meaning of 'sending' or 'employing' is the foundation for the modern meaning of 'to use'.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'tsoo-KOW', with the emphasis on the second syllable. The 'tsu' is sharp.
Similar to UK, 'tsoo-KOW', emphasis on the second syllable. The 'u' sound in 'tsu' is short and sharp.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tsu' too softly.
- Adding an extra vowel sound after 'kai'.
- Incorrect stress placement, often making it sound flat.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read in basic sentences, requires context for advanced usage.
Easy to write basic sentences, requires practice for nuance and formality.
Easy to say in basic sentences, pronunciation needs practice.
Easy to understand in simple contexts, requires attention to nuance in complex speech.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Avanzado
Grammar to Know
Particles (Object Marker を)
The particle を marks the direct object of the verb 使う.
Verb Conjugation (Group 1 Verbs)
使う conjugates to 使います (polite), 使った (past), 使わない (negative).
Te-form Usage
使って (tsukatte) can mean 'using' or connect clauses: 'I used a pen and wrote.'
Examples by Level
ペンを 使います。
pen (object) use (polite form).
Object + を + Verb
これ を 使って ください。
this (object) use (request form) please.
Use ください for polite requests.
時間 を 使います。
time (object) use (polite form).
Abstract nouns can also be objects.
ナイフ を 使います。
knife (object) use (polite form).
The particle を marks the direct object.
電話 を 使います。
phone (object) use (polite form).
Common objects are often used with 使う.
車 を 使います。
car (object) use (polite form).
Means 'to use a car' (e.g., drive it).
お金 を 使います。
money (object) use (polite form).
Refers to spending money.
道具 を 使います。
tool (object) use (polite form).
General term for tools.
この はさみ を 使って、紙 を 切ります。
this scissors (object) use (te-form) paper (object) cut (polite form).
Te-form + ください/ます indicates using something to do something.
彼はいつも 新しい 技術 を 使って います。
he always new technology (object) use (present continuous).
Present continuous for ongoing actions.
会議 で 英語 を 使いますか？
meeting at English (object) use (polite question)?
Using a language in a specific context.
時間 を 無駄 に 使って は いけません。
time (object) wastefully use (negative prohibition).
〜ては いけません means 'must not do ~'.
この レポート は パソコン を 使って 書きました。
this report (topic) computer (object) use (past tense) wrote.
Past tense indicates the action was completed.
彼の アイデア は とても 面白いです。 ぜひ 使って みましょう。
his idea (topic) very interesting. By all means use (try) let's.
〜てみましょう suggests trying something.
この 道具 は 特別な 方法 で 使います。
this tool (topic) special method by use (polite form).
〜で can indicate the means or method.
古い 辞書 を 使って、 意味 を 調べました。
old dictionary (object) use (te-form) meaning (object) looked up (past tense).
Using a resource to find information.
この プログラム は 最新 の 技術 を 使って 開発 されました。
this program (topic) latest (of) technology (object) use (passive past tense) was developed.
Passive voice (されました) is common for product development.
彼は どんな 時でも 落ち着いて 状況 を 使う ことができる。
he any time even calm situation (object) use (potential form) can do.
Potential form (ことができる) means 'can do'.
この 問題 を 解決 するには、 創造的な 発想 が 必要です。
this problem (object) solve to, creative idea (subject) necessary is.
Implies using creative ideas, though '使う' isn't explicit here, it's the underlying concept.
彼女 は 彼女 の 経験 を 使って、 若い 人々 を 指導 しています。
she (topic) her experience (object) use (te-form) young people (object) guide (present continuous).
Using past experience to help others.
この 道具 は 非常に 精密な 作業 に 使われます。
this tool (topic) very precise work for use (passive potential form).
Passive potential (使われます) means 'can be used'.
会議 の 時間 を 有効 に 使う 方法 を 考えましょう。
meeting (of) time (object) effectively use (of) way (subject) let's think.
Focuses on efficient use of time.
彼は 交渉 の ために、 あらゆる 手段 を 使った。
he negotiation (of) purpose for, all means (object) used (past tense).
Implies using all available methods.
この 古い 本 には、 興味深い 情報 が 使われて いる。
this old book in, interesting information (subject) used (passive present continuous) is.
Passive present continuous (使われている) indicates information is contained/utilized.
その 企業 は 独自の データ分析 手法 を 駆使して、 市場 の 変化 を 予測 している。
that company (topic) unique data analysis method (object) fully utilize (te-form) market (of) change (object) predict (present continuous).
駆使する (kushisuru) is a stronger form of 'to use fully'.
彼は 弁論術 を 使って、 群衆 を 魅了 した。
he rhetoric (object) use (past tense) crowd (object) captivated (past tense).
Using a skill (rhetoric) for effect.
この 状況 を 改善 するには、 従来 の 考え方 を 捨て、 新しい アプローチ を 使う 必要がある。
this situation (object) improve to, conventional way (of) thinking (object) discard, new approach (object) use (of) necessity exists.
Necessity (必要がある) implies a required action.
政府 は 経済 を 刺激 するため、 さまざまな 政策 を 打ち出している。
government (topic) economy (object) stimulate to, various policies (object) launch (present continuous).
打ち出す (uchidasu) - to launch/propose, implies using policies.
彼女 は その 機会 を 最大限 に 活用 し、 目標 を 達成 した。
she (topic) that opportunity (object) maximum to utilize (te-form) goal (object) achieved (past tense).
活用する (katsuyō suru) - to utilize effectively.
この 古典文学 作品 は、 比喩的 表現 を 多用 して、 深い 意味 を 伝えて いる。
this classical literature work (topic), figurative expressions (object) frequently use (te-form) deep meaning (object) convey (present continuous).
多用する (tayō suru) - to use frequently/extensively.
彼は 相手 の 心理 を 読み、 それ を 交渉 に 使った。
he opponent (of) psychology (object) read, that (object) negotiation into used (past tense).
Using psychological insight strategically.
この 芸術作品 は、 伝統的な 技術 と 現代的な 感覚 を 融合 させて 作られ ている。
this art work (topic), traditional techniques and modern sensibility (object) fuse (te-form) made (passive present continuous) is.
Implies using/combining techniques and ideas.
その 組織 は、 限られた 資源 を 極めて 効率的に 運用 し、 驚異的な 成果 を 上げた。
that organization (topic), limited resources (object) extremely efficiently operate (te-form) astonishing results (object) achieved.
運用する (un'yō suru) - to operate/manage, often used for systems or funds.
彼は 状況 を 巧み に 利用し、 自身の 優位性 を 確立 した。
he situation (object) skillfully utilize (te-form) his own advantage (object) establish (past tense).
利用する (riyō suru) - to utilize/make use of, often implies strategic benefit.
この 哲学 的 議論 は、 抽象的な 概念 を 多岐 にわたって 展開 している。
this philosophical discussion (topic), abstract concepts (object) wide range over develop (present continuous).
Implies using abstract concepts extensively.
彼女 は その 経験 を 教訓 として、 今後 の 意思決定 に 反映 させる つもりだ。
she (topic) that experience (object) lesson as, future (of) decision-making into reflect cause (intent is).
反映させる (han'ei saseru) - to reflect/incorporate, implies using the experience.
その 芸術家 は、 伝統的な 技術 を 現代的 な 感性 で 再解釈 し、 新たな 表現 を 模索 している。
that artist (topic), traditional techniques (object) modern (of) sensibility with reinterpret (te-form) new expression (object) seek (present continuous).
Implies using traditional techniques in a new way.
彼は 相手 の 弱み に つけ込み、 交渉 を 有利に 進めた。
he opponent (of) weakness into exploit, negotiation (object) advantageously advance (past tense).
つけ込む (tsukikomu) - to exploit/take advantage of, implies using a weakness.
この 文学 作品 は、 言語 の 可能性 を 極限 まで 押し広げ ている。
this literary work (topic), language (of) potential (object) limit to edge push expand (te-form).
押し広げる (oshihirogeru) - to push open widely, implies using language to its limits.
彼ら は その 状況 を 利用して、 政治的な 目的 を 達成 しよう とした。
they (topic) that situation (object) use (te-form) political objective (object) achieve (intent) tried.
利用して (riyō shite) - using/taking advantage of.
その 政治家 は、 言論 の 自由 を 盾 に、 物議 を 醸す 発言 を 繰り返した。
that politician (topic), freedom of speech (object) shield as, controversial remarks (object) repeated.
盾に (tate ni) - using as a shield, implies using something as a pretext.
彼は 権力 を 背景 に、 その 影響力 を 巧みに 行使 した。
he power (object) background as, that influence (object) skillfully exercise (past tense).
行使する (kōshi suru) - to exercise (power, rights), implies active utilization.
この 芸術運動 は、 既存 の 価値観 を 転覆 させる べく、 あらゆる 手段 を 講じた。
this art movement (topic), existing values (object) overthrow cause (purpose) all means (object) took (past tense).
講じる (kōjiru) - to take (measures, steps), implies employing methods.
彼女 は その 機会 を 逃さず、 自己 の 能力 を 最大限 に 発揮 した。
she (topic) that opportunity (object) not miss, self (of) ability (object) maximum to demonstrate (past tense).
発揮する (hakki suru) - to display/demonstrate, implies using one's abilities fully.
その 作家 は、 言葉 の 響き を 精緻に 計算し、 読者 の 心象風景 を 巧みに 描き出し た。
that writer (topic), words (of) resonance (object) elaborately calculate (te-form) reader (of) mental landscape (object) skillfully depict (past tense).
Implies using the nuances of language precisely.
彼は 相手 の 油断 を 見逃さず、 その 隙 を 突いた。
he opponent (of) carelessness (object) not overlook, that gap (object) attacked (past tense).
隙を突く (suki o tsuku) - to exploit a gap/opportunity.
この 科学 的 発見 は、 既存 の 理論 を 覆す 可能性 を秘めている。
this scientific discovery (topic), existing theories (object) overturn (of) potential (object) holds.
Implies using the discovery to challenge theories.
彼女 は その 状況 を 逆手 に取り、 予期せぬ 結果 を 導き 出した。
she (topic) that situation (object) reverse hand take, unexpected result (object) lead out (past tense).
逆手にとる (sakate ni toru) - to turn to one's advantage, implies using a situation cleverly.
Colocaciones comunes
Idioms & Expressions
"目を遣う (me o tsukau)"
To cast one's eyes upon, to glance at, to pay attention to.
彼は彼女の様子にそっと目を遣った。
neutral"口を使う (kuchi o tsukau)"
To use persuasive speech, flattery, or eloquent words.
彼は巧みな口を使って、相手を説得した。
neutral"手を遣う (te o tsukau)"
To go to a lot of trouble or effort to do something.
この料理を作るのに、ずいぶん手を遣った。
neutral"足を使う (ashi o tsukau)"
To make footwork, to go around on foot (often for business or investigation).
情報を集めるために、足を使った。
neutral"心を遣う (kokoro o tsukau)"
To be concerned about someone, to be thoughtful of their feelings.
彼はいつも周りの人々の心を遣っている。
neutral"知恵を遣う (chie o tsukau)"
To use one's wits or intelligence to solve a problem.
この難問を解くには、知恵を遣う必要がある。
neutralEasily Confused
Same pronunciation, different kanji.
使う (tsukau) means 'to use' (objects, tools, etc.). 遣う (tsukau) often means 'to spend' (money, time) or 'to send' (someone on an errand), and can also mean 'to use' in a more literary or nuanced way.
道具を使う (dōgu o tsukau - use a tool) vs. 心遣い (kokoro-zukai - thoughtfulness, consideration; literally 'using one's heart/mind').
Both mean 'to use'.
用いる is more formal than 使う and is often preferred for abstract concepts, methods, techniques, or in written Japanese.
新しい方法を用いる (atarashii hōhō o mochiiru - to employ a new method) vs. ペンを用いる (pen o mochiiru - less common, ペンを使う is more natural).
Both mean 'to use'.
利用する often implies making good use of something, taking advantage of an opportunity, or utilizing resources. It can sometimes carry a nuance of benefiting from something.
この機会を利用する (kono kikai o riyō suru - to take advantage of this opportunity) vs. この機会を使う (kono kikai o tsukau - less common, implies using the opportunity itself).
Can mean 'to operate' or 'control', similar to using machinery.
操る implies skillful manipulation, control, or operation, often of complex systems, puppets, or even people's emotions. It suggests a higher degree of dexterity or influence than simple 使う.
機械を操る (kikai o ayatsuru - to operate a machine skillfully) vs. 機械を使う (kikai o tsukau - to use a machine).
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + 使う
私はこのペンを使います。
Noun + を + 使って + Verb
パソコンを使って、レポートを書きました。
Noun + の + 使い方
この掃除機の使い方を教えてください。
Noun + を + 無駄に使う
時間を無駄に使わないようにしましょう。
Noun + を + 使って + Noun
彼はユーモアを使って、場を和ませた。
Familia de palabras
Nouns
Verbs
Relacionado
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Errores comunes
While する can mean 'to do', 使う is specifically for 'to use' objects. 'ペンをする' is incorrect.
The particle を marks the direct object of the verb 使う.
The kanji 使 is for general 'use', while 遣 often implies 'sending' or 'spending' (like money).
While 使う isn't strictly wrong, 用いる is preferred for abstract concepts in formal writing.
While 使う can mean 'to employ', 雇う (yatou - to hire) is more specific for taking on staff.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a giant 'Tsu' shaped clock (for time) that you are using to measure out 'Kai' (like 'kayaking' - using your time for activities). Associate the 'tsu' sound with the clock and 'kai' with the activity.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 使う when people talk about daily routines (using phone, computer), work tasks (using tools, software), or spending resources (using money, time).
Cultural Insight
Japanese culture often values efficiency. Think about how 使う can relate to using resources wisely (or unwisely, 無駄に使う) – this is a common underlying theme.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember the pattern: [Object] + を + 使う. This is your core structure for most basic sentences!
Say It Right
Practice the 'tsu' sound – it's sharp, not like the English 'too'. Aim for 'tsu-kai-oo'.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid using する (suru) for physical objects. Always use 使う (tsukau) for the action of using them.
Did You Know?
The kanji '使' originally meant 'to send' or 'to employ someone'. The idea of 'using' things evolved from this concept of putting something or someone into service.
Study Smart
Create flashcards with common collocations like '道具を使う', '時間を使う', 'お金を使う' to build your vocabulary quickly.
Active Recall
When you see an object, try to mentally form the sentence 'I use [object]' using 使う. This active recall strengthens memory.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine someone TSUnami-ing (tsu) a pile of KAI-yaks (kai) to use them all at once!
Visual Association
Picture a person using a tool (like a hammer) with a determined expression.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to list 5 things you used today and say the Japanese sentence for each.
Origen de la palabra
Japanese
Original meaning: To send, dispatch, employ (as in sending someone on a mission or employing them).
Contexto cultural
Generally, 使う is a neutral term. However, context matters. Using a person's 'feelings' (気持ちを使う - kimochi o tsukau) can sometimes imply manipulation if not used carefully. Also, wasting resources (無駄に使う - muda ni tsukau) is culturally frowned upon.
In English-speaking cultures, 'use' is a very common and neutral verb. The Japanese equivalent 使う also carries this neutrality but can be elevated in formality with different verb endings or synonyms like 用いる.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At home / Daily life
- テレビを使います。(Terebi o tsukaimasu. - I use the TV.)
- この道具を使っています。(Kono dōgu o tsukatte imasu. - I am using this tool.)
- 携帯電話を使えますか？(Keitai denwa o tsukaemasu ka? - Can I use a mobile phone?)
At work / Office
- パソコンを使わせてください。(Pasokon o tsukawasete kudasai. - Please let me use the computer.)
- このソフトウェアを使っています。(Kono sofutowea o tsukatte imasu. - I am using this software.)
- 新しい技術を使いたい。(Atarashii gijutsu o tsukaitai. - I want to use new technology.)
Travel / Transportation
- この地図を使ってもいいですか？(Kono chizu o tsukatte mo ii desu ka? - May I use this map?)
- タクシーを使いました。(Takushī o tsukaimashita. - I used a taxi.)
- 交通手段を使わない。(Kōtsū shudan o tsukawanai. - Not using transportation methods.)
Learning / Study
- 辞書を使います。(Jisho o tsukaimasu. - I use a dictionary.)
- この単語帳の使い方を教えてください。(Kono tangochō no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai. - Please teach me how to use this vocabulary book.)
- 時間を有効に使いたい。(Jikan o yūkō ni tsukaitai. - I want to use my time effectively.)
Conversation Starters
"What's your favorite tool to use for [hobby]?"
"How do you usually use your free time?"
"What kind of technology do you use most often?"
"Do you prefer using maps or GPS when traveling?"
"What's the best way to use [a specific object/resource]?"
Journal Prompts
Describe something you used today and why it was helpful.
Write about a time you wasted time or resources. What could you have done differently?
How do you use your skills or talents in your daily life?
Imagine you have a new gadget. How would you use it?
Preguntas frecuentes
8 preguntas使う is the general, everyday word for 'to use'. 用いる is more formal and often used for abstract concepts, methods, or in written language.
Yes, it can, but 雇う (yatou - to hire) is more specific for employing staff. 使う might be used for temporary or specific tasks.
Yes, typically the object being used is marked with the particle を (o).
No, 使う is a Group 1 (u-verb) and follows regular conjugation patterns, making it relatively easy to learn.
When you say 時間を使う (jikan o tsukau), it means to spend time, allocate time, or utilize time for a specific activity.
Yes, 無駄に使う (muda ni tsukau) means 'to waste', and 浪費する (rōhi suru) is a more formal word for 'to waste' (especially money or resources).
活用する emphasizes making the *best* or *most effective* use of something, often highlighting potential or advantage.
Yes, you can say 言語を使う (gengo o tsukau - to use a language), although 話す (hanasu - to speak) or 使う (tsukau) in context of communication might be more common depending on the nuance.
Ponte a prueba
私はペンを ______。
The sentence is about using a pen, so the verb '使います' (tsukaimasu - use) is correct.
Which sentence correctly means 'I use my phone'?
The verb '使う' (tsukau) means 'to use', and '電話' (denwa) means 'phone'. Therefore, '私は電話を使います' is the correct sentence.
The verb 使う (tsukau) can be used for both physical objects and abstract concepts like 'time'.
Yes, 使う is versatile. You can say '時間を使う' (jikan o tsukau - to use time) as well as 'ペンを使う' (pen o tsukau - to use a pen).
Word
Significado
These are common nouns that are often 'used' with the verb 使う.
The correct order is 'この道具を使って、棚を組み立てました。' (Kono dōgu o tsukatte, tana o kumitatemashita. - Using this tool, I assembled the shelf.)
会議で日本語を ______。
'話します' (hanashimasu - speak) or '書きます' (kakimasu - write) could also fit, but '使います' (tsukaimasu - use) is the most direct answer for using a language in a setting.
Which phrase means 'to use one's wits'?
'知恵を使う' (chie o tsukau) specifically means to use one's intelligence or wits.
In formal writing, 使う is always the best choice for 'to use'.
While common, formal contexts often prefer synonyms like 用いる (mochiiru) or 活用する (katsuyō suru) for abstract concepts or effective utilization.
The correct sentence is 'その組織は限られた資源を効率的に運用し、驚異的な成果を上げました。' (Sono soshiki wa kagirareta shigen o kōritsu-teki ni un'yō shi, kyōi-teki na seika o agemashita. - That organization efficiently operated its limited resources and achieved astonishing results.)
この問題は、〇〇 ______ 必要がある。
For a complex problem requiring extensive effort, '駆使する' (kushisuru - to use fully, to employ skillfully) is the most appropriate choice.
Puntuación: /10
Summary
Mastering 使う opens the door to describing countless everyday actions in Japanese.
- 使う (tsukau) is the fundamental Japanese verb for 'to use'.
- It applies to objects, time, money, skills, and more.
- It's a versatile, neutral verb suitable for most situations.
- Remember the basic pattern: [Object] + を + 使う.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a giant 'Tsu' shaped clock (for time) that you are using to measure out 'Kai' (like 'kayaking' - using your time for activities). Associate the 'tsu' sound with the clock and 'kai' with the activity.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 使う when people talk about daily routines (using phone, computer), work tasks (using tools, software), or spending resources (using money, time).
Cultural Insight
Japanese culture often values efficiency. Think about how 使う can relate to using resources wisely (or unwisely, 無駄に使う) – this is a common underlying theme.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember the pattern: [Object] + を + 使う. This is your core structure for most basic sentences!
Ejemplo
このペンを使ってください。
Related Content
Esta palabra en otros idiomas
Más palabras de general
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
