At the A1 level, you usually learn simple words like 'ii' (good) or 'benri' (convenient). 'Yūyō' is a bit more advanced because it uses two kanji and is more formal. You can think of 'yūyō' as a very strong 'good' for things that help you do a job. For example, if a book helps you study, it is 'yūyō'. At this stage, just remember that it means 'useful' and is used with 'na' (useful thing = yūyō na mono) or 'da/desu' (it is useful = yūyō desu). You might see it in simple signs or very basic business introductions. Don't worry about using it in daily chat yet; 'benri' is much better for beginners talking about shops or phones.
At the A2 level, you are starting to describe things in more detail. You can use 'yūyō' to describe tools or information that help you achieve a specific goal. You might say 'This website is useful for my homework' (kono saito wa shukudai ni yūyō desu). You should notice that 'yūyō' is more 'serious' than 'benri'. 'Benri' is for things that make life easy (like a microwave), while 'yūyō' is for things that are effective (like a good dictionary). Try to use 'yūyō' when you are writing a simple report or a formal email. Remember the pattern: [Thing] wa [Purpose] ni yūyō desu.
As a B1 learner, you should be able to distinguish between 'yūyō' and its synonyms like 'yaku ni tatsu'. 'Yūyō' is a 'na-adjective' and is common in professional environments. You will encounter it in news articles, business meetings, and non-fiction books. You should start using it to discuss resources, time management, and professional skills. For example, 'yūyō na jinzai' (useful/talented person) is a common phrase in the workplace. You should also be comfortable using the adverbial form 'yūyō ni' with verbs like 'tsukau' (to use) or 'katsuyō suru' (to utilize). This shows you are reaching a level where you can discuss productivity and value.
At the B2 level, you should understand the nuance of 'yūyō' as an objective assessment of utility. You will see it used in more complex sentence structures, often paired with abstract nouns like 'riron' (theory), 'shuhō' (method), or 'shigen' (resources). You should also be familiar with the noun form 'yūyō-sei' (usefulness/utility), which is frequently used in analytical contexts. For instance, 'The utility of this new technology is being debated.' You should be able to use 'yūyō' to make logical arguments in essays or debates, comparing the effectiveness of different approaches using formal Japanese (using 'de aru' instead of 'da').
At the C1 level, your use of 'yūyō' should be precise and contextually appropriate. You understand that 'yūyō' is often part of a larger discourse on efficiency and value. You might encounter it in philosophical texts or high-level economic reports. You should be able to distinguish it from 'yūeki' (beneficial) and 'yūigi' (meaningful) with ease. In a professional setting, you can use 'yūyō' to evaluate complex systems or human capital. You are also expected to recognize it in classical-style compounds or formal legal language. Your ability to use 'yūyō' correctly reflects your mastery of 'kango' and your ability to navigate formal Japanese society.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of the word's etymology and its place within the Japanese language's register system. You can use 'yūyō' in academic papers, legal briefs, or high-level strategic planning. You understand the historical development of the term and how it relates to concepts of utilitarianism (kōri-shugi) and social value. You can use it with subtle irony or within complex metaphorical frameworks. Your usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, employing 'yūyō' to discuss the existential utility of actions or the structural utility of societal norms. You are also aware of rare or archaic synonyms that might be used in literature.

有用 en 30 segundos

  • Useful or beneficial in a formal/functional sense.
  • A na-adjective used for tools, data, and skills.
  • Common in business, academic, and news contexts.
  • More formal than 'benri' (convenient) or 'yaku ni tatsu'.

The word 有用 (yūyō) is a sophisticated Japanese adjective-noun (na-adjective) that translates primarily to "useful," "beneficial," or "helpful." While English speakers might use "useful" for everything from a Swiss Army knife to a piece of advice, Japanese has several words for utility, and yūyō occupies a specific niche. It is composed of two kanji: 有 (yū), meaning "to exist" or "to have," and 用 (yō), meaning "use" or "business." Literally, it describes something that "has a use."

Formal Utility
Unlike the common word benri (convenient), yūyō suggests a deeper level of value. It is frequently used in business, academic, or technical contexts to describe information, tools, or even human resources that contribute significantly to a goal.

このデータは新しいプロジェクトにとって非常に有用です。
(This data is extremely useful for the new project.)

In social contexts, yūyō is often paired with the particle ni to form yūyō ni tsukau (to use usefully/effectively). This is often heard in the phrase "time should be used usefully" (時間を有用に使う). It carries a nuance of productivity and purposefulness that simple "helpfulness" lacks. It implies that the object or information in question is not just handy, but possesses an inherent quality that facilitates success or progress.

Human Capital
When applied to people, yūyō na jinzai refers to a "useful person" or "valuable talent." While calling someone "useful" in English can sometimes sound cold or utilitarian, in a Japanese corporate setting, being called yūyō is a high compliment regarding one's competence and contribution to the organization.

彼は社会にとって有用な人間になりたいと考えている。
(He wants to become a person who is useful to society.)

Furthermore, yūyō is often contrasted with its antonym muyō (useless/unnecessary). In historical contexts, or even in modern legal and philosophical discussions, the "utility" of an object is its yūyō-sei. This abstract noun form is common in research papers. For example, a scientist might discuss the yūyō-sei of a new chemical compound in treating a disease. It suggests a proven, objective benefit rather than a subjective feeling of convenience.

Abstract vs. Concrete
While you can call a hammer yūyō, it is more common to use it for abstract things like advice, methods, or time. A hammer is more likely to be called benri (convenient) or tsukaigatte ga ii (easy to use).

この技術は農業分野で広く有用であると証明された。
(This technology has been proven to be widely useful in the field of agriculture.)

Mastering 有用 (yūyō) requires understanding its grammatical flexibility. As a na-adjective, it follows standard patterns, but its usage is often elevated. To say something is useful for something, you use the particle ni (〜に有用). This indicates the target or purpose of the utility.

The 'Target' Construction
[Noun] + に + 有用 + だ/です. This is the most common way to state that something serves a specific purpose well. For example, 'This book is useful for studying' would be 'この本は勉強に有用だ'.

インターネットは、情報の検索に極めて有用な手段だ。
(The internet is an extremely useful means for searching for information.)

When you want to describe a noun directly, you must use na. This creates a formal tone suitable for reports or professional evaluations. For instance, in a job recommendation, one might write about yūyō na sukiru (useful skills). This sounds much more professional than benri na sukiru, which would sound odd as 'convenient skills' doesn't quite capture the professional value of a capability.

Modifying Nouns
有用な + [Noun]. Use this to categorize things by their utility. 'Useful information' is 有用な情報 (yūyō na jōhō). 'Useful resources' is 有用な資源 (yūyō na shigen).

彼は有用なアドバイスをたくさんくれた。
(He gave me a lot of useful advice.)

Another frequent pattern is the adverbial use with ni: yūyō ni (usefully/effectively). This is almost always followed by verbs of action like tsukau (use), katsuyō suru (utilize), or mochiiru (employ). It emphasizes the manner in which something is handled to ensure its value is not wasted.

Adverbial Use
有用に + [Verb]. This emphasizes the efficiency or effectiveness of an action. 'To use resources usefully' is 資源を有用に使う (shigen o yūyō ni tsukau).

空いた時間を有用に活用すべきだ。
(You should utilize your free time usefully.)

In academic writing, you will see yūyō used with the copula de aru instead of da/desu. For example, 'This method is useful for analysis' (この手法は分析に有用である). This further solidifies its position as a term for objective assessment. It is also common to see it in comparative structures, like yori yūyō da (is more useful). When comparing two methods, yūyō allows for a logical, evidence-based comparison of their respective utilities.

従来のモデルよりも、この新しいモデルの方が有用性が高い。
(This new model has higher utility than the conventional one.)

If you are watching a casual anime about high school life, you might not hear 有用 (yūyō) very often. Instead, characters will say benri (convenient) or yaku ni tatsu (useful/helpful). However, as soon as the setting shifts to a corporate office, a laboratory, or a news broadcast, yūyō becomes a staple of the vocabulary.

Business Meetings
In meetings, managers use this word to evaluate strategies or software. 'Is this tool useful for our team?' (このツールは我々のチームにとって有用ですか?). It signals that they are looking for functional ROI (return on investment).

会議で有用な意見が出された。
(Useful opinions were expressed at the meeting.)

News reports and documentaries are another prime location for this word. When discussing government policies, environmental technologies, or medical breakthroughs, journalists use yūyō to describe the potential benefits to the public. You might hear about yūyō na shigen (useful resources) like rare earth metals or yūyō na saikin (useful bacteria) in the context of health and science.

Academic Papers & Lectures
University students encounter this word constantly in textbooks. It is the standard term for describing the validity or utility of a theory or a data set. A professor might say, 'This theorem is useful for solving complex equations.'

この文献は、私の研究において非常に有用でした。
(This literature was very useful in my research.)

In self-improvement and productivity circles, yūyō is used to discuss time management. Influencers often talk about how to spend your time "usefully" (yūyō ni sugosu). In this context, it takes on a slightly more personal but still disciplined tone, implying that one should seek activities that have long-term value rather than just fleeting pleasure.

Legal and Official Documents
In contracts or official guidelines, 'yūyō' might appear to describe the intended use of a grant or a property. It ensures that the subject is being used for its 'useful' and 'intended' purpose.

補助金を有用に使うためのガイドライン。
(Guidelines for using subsidies usefully/effectively.)

Finally, you will see it in product reviews, especially for technical gadgets or professional software. While a review for a cute phone case might use kawaii (cute) or benri (convenient), a review for a high-end video editing suite will likely use yūyō to describe its advanced features. It signals that the product is a serious tool for serious work.

One of the most frequent mistakes English learners make is using 有用 (yūyō) where benri (convenient) or yaku ni tatsu (helpful) would be more natural. Because yūyō is a formal kango (Sino-Japanese) word, using it in casual conversation can make you sound like a textbook or a overly serious businessman.

Mistake 1: Casual Overuse
If a friend helps you carry a bag, don't say 'You are yūyō.' This sounds like you are evaluating them as a piece of equipment. Instead, say 'Arigatō, tasukatta' (Thanks, that helped) or 'Yaku ni tatta' (That was helpful).

❌ この電子レンジはとても有用です。
✅ この電子レンジはとても便利です。
(A microwave is convenient [benri], not 'useful' in the formal [yūyō] sense.)

Another common error is confusing yūyō with yū益 (yūeki). While they are very similar, yūeki specifically implies that there is a 'profit' or 'benefit' (eki) gained. Yūyō is more about the 'application' or 'utility' () of the thing. You use yūeki for things that enrich your mind or wallet, like a 'beneficial book' (yūeki na hon), whereas yūyō is for things that function as a tool for a task.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Yūeki'
Use 'yūyō' for functional utility (tools, data, methods). Use 'yūeki' for beneficial outcomes (advice, experiences, investments).

❌ 有用な休みを過ごした。
✅ 有意義な休みを過ごした。
(For a 'meaningful' vacation, use 'yūigi', not 'yūyō'.)

Furthermore, learners sometimes forget that yūyō is a na-adjective. They might try to use it like a verb or forget the na when modifying a noun. Remember: it's not 'yūyō jōhō' but 'yūyō na jōhō'. Also, be careful with the pronunciation; don't confuse it with uyō (right wing) or yūyō (postponement/grace period - though spelled differently in kanji: 猶予).

Mistake 3: Kanji Confusion
The 'yū' in 有用 (existence) is different from the 'yū' in 優秀 (excellent) or 悠々 (quietly). Make sure you are using the 'have/exist' kanji.

❌ この人はとても有用な人だ。
✅ この人はとても優秀な人だ。
(While 'yūyō' is possible in business, 'yūshū' [excellent/talented] is much more common for praising a person's general ability.)

Japanese has a rich vocabulary for 'utility.' Understanding the subtle differences between 有用 (yūyō) and its synonyms will significantly improve your fluency. Let's compare the most common alternatives.

有用 (Yūyō) vs. 便利 (Benri)
Yūyō: Focuses on the objective value and effectiveness for a purpose. (e.g., a useful data set).
Benri: Focuses on subjective convenience and ease of use. (e.g., a nearby convenience store).
有用 (Yūyō) vs. 役立つ (Yaku ni tatsu)
Yūyō: More formal, often used in writing or professional speeches.
Yaku ni tatsu: More common in spoken Japanese. It literally means 'stands for a role'.

この辞書は翻訳に有用だ。 (Formal)
この辞書は翻訳に役に立つ。 (Natural/Spoken)
(Both mean 'This dictionary is useful for translation.')

Other important synonyms include yūeki (beneficial), which implies a positive gain or profit, and chōhō (handy/useful), which often describes a tool or item that you find yourself using often because it's so practical. There is also jitsuyōteki (practical), which focuses on the 'real-world' application of something rather than just theoretical value.

More Nuanced Alternatives
有益 (Yūeki): Beneficial. Used for experiences or information that improve one's state.
重宝 (Chōhō): To treasure/find handy. Used for things you use frequently (e.g., 'I find this small knife very handy').
実用的 (Jitsuyōteki): Practical. Used for things that are not just pretty but actually work well in practice.

彼は非常に有益な本を出版した。
(He published a very beneficial [yūeki] book.)

Finally, consider the negative side. If something is not useful, you can use muyō (useless/unnecessary), mueki (futile/unprofitable), or the more common yaku ni tatanai (doesn't help). In a professional setting, yūyō de wa nai is a polite way to say something isn't meeting the required utility standards. Choosing the right word depends entirely on whether you are emphasizing convenience, profit, practicality, or formal utility.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The kanji '有' (yū) originally depicted a hand holding a piece of meat, symbolizing possession. '用' (yō) originally depicted a wooden fence or a bucket, symbolizing a tool used for a specific task.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /juː.joʊ/
US /juː.joʊ/
Japanese pitch accent usually rises on the second syllable: yu-YO.
Rima con
Chūyō (中庸 - moderation) Tōyō (登用 - appointment) Kōyō (効用 - utility) Sōyō (奏功 - success) Kyōyō (教養 - education) Ryōyō (療養 - medical treatment) Jūyō (重要 - important) Hōyō (抱擁 - embrace)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing it as 'yuyo' (short vowels) instead of 'yūyō' (long vowels).
  • Confusing it with 'yūyō' (猶予 - grace period) which has the same sound but different kanji.
  • Mispronouncing 'yū' as 'yu' like in 'yummy'.
  • Putting the stress too heavily on the first syllable.
  • Mumbling the 'n' sound if it appears in 'yūyō na'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

The kanji are common but require knowledge of kango patterns.

Escritura 3/5

Writing 'yū' (有) and 'yō' (用) is basic, but using them correctly in a sentence is B1 level.

Expresión oral 4/5

Hard to know when to use it vs. 'benri' or 'yaku ni tatsu' without practice.

Escucha 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be confused with similar sounding words.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

便利 (benri) 使う (tsukau) ある (aru) 情報 (jōhō) 大切 (taisetsu)

Aprende después

有益 (yūeki) 有効 (yūkō) 実用的 (jitsuyōteki) 効率 (kōritsu) 価値 (kachi)

Avanzado

功利主義 (kōri-shugi) 汎用性 (hanyō-sei) 互換性 (gokan-sei) 妥当性 (datō-sei)

Gramática que debes saber

Na-Adjective Modification

有用な本 (yūyō na hon)

Adverbial 'ni'

有用に使う (yūyō ni tsukau)

Purpose Particle 'ni'

勉強に有用だ (yūyō ni benkyō da)

Noun form '-sei'

有用性を高める (yūyō-sei o takameru)

Formal Copula 'de aru'

有用である (yūyō de aru)

Ejemplos por nivel

1

この本はとても有用です。

This book is very useful.

Simple [Noun] wa [Adjective] desu structure.

2

有用な道具を使いましょう。

Let's use useful tools.

Na-adjective modifying a noun (yūyō na dōgu).

3

これは有用な情報ですか?

Is this useful information?

Question form of a na-adjective phrase.

4

あの辞書は有用です。

That dictionary is useful.

Using 'ano' to specify a distant object.

5

有用なものを買います。

I will buy useful things.

Using 'mono' (thing) with the adjective.

6

先生の話は有用でした。

The teacher's talk was useful.

Past tense of a na-adjective (deshita).

7

時間は有用に使いなさい。

Use your time usefully.

Adverbial use (yūyō ni) with an imperative verb.

8

有用ではないものは捨てます。

I will throw away things that are not useful.

Negative form (yūyō de wa nai).

1

このサイトは英語の勉強に有用だ。

This site is useful for studying English.

Purpose indicated by the particle 'ni'.

2

図書館には有用な本がたくさんある。

There are many useful books in the library.

Existential sentence with 'aru'.

3

有用なアドバイスをありがとうございました。

Thank you for the useful advice.

Standard polite gratitude for a specific noun.

4

新しいスマホは仕事に有用です。

The new smartphone is useful for work.

Business context for utility.

5

もっと有用な方法を探しています。

I am looking for a more useful method.

Using 'motto' (more) for comparison.

6

その経験は将来、有用になるでしょう。

That experience will likely be useful in the future.

Future conjecture with 'naru deshō'.

7

有用な人材になりたいです。

I want to become a useful person (to society/company).

Expressing desire with 'tai'.

8

古いパソコンもまだ有用な場合があります。

Old computers can still be useful in some cases.

Using 'baai' (case/situation).

1

このソフトはデータ分析に非常に有用である。

This software is extremely useful for data analysis.

Formal 'de aru' ending.

2

有用な資源を無駄にしてはいけない。

We must not waste useful resources.

Negative obligation 'te wa ikenai'.

3

彼はチームにとって有用なメンバーだ。

He is a useful member for the team.

Evaluating a person's contribution.

4

有用な情報を共有することが大切です。

It is important to share useful information.

Nominalizing a verb phrase with 'koto'.

5

この薬は痛みを抑えるのに有用だ。

This medicine is useful for suppressing pain.

Using 'no ni' for purpose/function.

6

会議で有用な意見がいくつか出された。

Several useful opinions were presented at the meeting.

Passive voice 'dasareta' (were put out).

7

時間を有用に活用する技術を学びたい。

I want to learn techniques to utilize time usefully.

Complex noun phrase modifying 'gijutsu'.

8

この実験結果は科学界において有用だ。

This experimental result is useful in the scientific community.

Using 'ni oite' (in/at a field).

1

その新技術の有用性は、まだ証明されていない。

The utility of that new technology has not yet been proven.

Noun form 'yūyō-sei' (utility).

2

社会に有用な活動を支援する団体です。

It is an organization that supports activities useful to society.

Relative clause modifying 'dantai'.

3

有用なアドバイスのおかげで、問題が解決した。

Thanks to the useful advice, the problem was solved.

Using 'okage de' (thanks to).

4

この文献は、私の論文にとって極めて有用だった。

This literature was extremely useful for my thesis.

Adverb 'kiwamete' (extremely) for emphasis.

5

限られた予算をいかに有用に使うかが課題だ。

The challenge is how to use the limited budget usefully.

Embedded question with 'ika ni'.

6

彼は、有用なスキルを身につけるために努力している。

He is making an effort to acquire useful skills.

Purpose clause 'tame ni'.

7

有用な情報を取捨選択する能力が求められている。

The ability to select and discard useful information is required.

Passive 'motomerarete iru' (is being sought).

8

この発見は、癌治療において有用な示唆を与えている。

This discovery provides useful suggestions for cancer treatment.

Abstract noun 'shisa' (suggestion/hint).

1

この理論の有用性は、多角的な視点から検証されるべきだ。

The utility of this theory should be verified from multiple perspectives.

Passive obligation 'sareru beki da'.

2

有用な人材の流出を防ぐことが、企業の急務である。

Preventing the brain drain of useful talent is an urgent task for the company.

Compound noun 'jinzai no ryūshutsu' (outflow of talent).

3

過去の失敗を有用な教訓として活かすべきです。

Past failures should be utilized as useful lessons.

Using 'toshite' (as).

4

この統計データは、将来の需要予測に非常に有用である。

This statistical data is very useful for future demand forecasting.

Noun-to-noun modification 'jūyō yosoku'.

5

有用な成分を抽出するための新しいプロセスを開発した。

We developed a new process for extracting useful components.

Compound verb 'chūshutsu suru' (to extract).

6

情報過多の時代において、何が有用かを見極めるのは難しい。

In an era of information overload, it is difficult to discern what is useful.

Nominalized question clause 'nani ga yūyō ka'.

7

この法律は、環境保護において極めて有用な役割を果たしている。

This law plays an extremely useful role in environmental protection.

Standard idiom 'yakuwari o hatasu' (to play a role).

8

有用なリソースを効率的に配分することが、経営の鍵となる。

Efficiently allocating useful resources becomes the key to management.

Future conditional 'kagi to naru'.

1

有用性の観点からのみ事象を判断するのは、功利主義的すぎる。

Judging phenomena solely from the perspective of utility is too utilitarian.

Abstract philosophical debate context.

2

この発見が医学史においていかに有用であったかは、言を俟たない。

It goes without saying how useful this discovery was in medical history.

Advanced idiom 'gen o matanai' (goes without saying).

3

有用な知見を社会に還元することが、研究者の責務である。

It is the responsibility of researchers to give back useful knowledge to society.

Formal verb 'kangen suru' (to return/give back).

4

有用なパラダイムの転換が、この分野に革命をもたらした。

A useful paradigm shift brought a revolution to this field.

Kango-heavy academic phrasing.

5

この技術の有用性は、長期的なフィールドワークを通じて実証された。

The utility of this technology was demonstrated through long-term fieldwork.

Using 'tsūjite' (through/via).

6

有用な情報の非対称性が、市場の歪みを生じさせている。

The asymmetry of useful information is causing market distortions.

Economic terminology 'jōhō no hitsaishō-sei'.

7

有用なメタファーを用いて、複雑な概念を簡潔に説明する。

Use useful metaphors to briefly explain complex concepts.

Methodological description.

8

有用な資源の枯渇は、文明の存続に関わる重大な問題である。

The depletion of useful resources is a serious issue concerning the survival of civilization.

Formal 'ni kakawaru' (concerning/related to).

Colocaciones comunes

有用な情報
有用な人材
有用な手段
有用な資源
有用なアドバイス
有用に使う
有用性が高い
有用であると認める
有用な役割
有用な細菌

Frases Comunes

社会に有用な

— Being useful to society. Often used in educational goals.

社会に有用な人間になりたい。

〜に有用だ

— To be useful for [purpose]. The standard grammar pattern.

この本は独学に有用だ。

極めて有用な

— Extremely useful. A formal intensifier.

それは極めて有用な発見だ。

有用なスキル

— Useful skills. Commonly used in career contexts.

有用なスキルを身につける。

有用なツール

— Useful tool. Common in tech and business.

これは仕事で有用なツールです。

有用なサイト

— Useful website. Used in recommendations.

勉強に有用なサイトを紹介する。

有用な文献

— Useful literature/references. Used in academic writing.

有用な文献を引用する。

有用な教訓

— Useful lesson. Used when learning from mistakes.

失敗を有用な教訓とする。

有用な成分

— Useful ingredients/components. Used in health and science.

有用な成分が含まれている。

有用な示唆

— Useful suggestions/hints. Very formal academic term.

研究に有用な示唆を与える。

Se confunde a menudo con

有用 vs 猶予 (Yūyo)

Sounds similar but means 'postponement' or 'grace period'.

有用 vs 有益 (Yūeki)

Means 'beneficial'. Focuses on the positive result/profit rather than the function.

有用 vs 便利 (Benri)

Means 'convenient'. Focuses on ease of use rather than objective utility.

Modismos y expresiones

"無用の長物"

— A useless white elephant. Something that is large but of no use.

この巨大な機械は今や無用の長物だ。

Literary
"有用な役割を果たす"

— To play a useful role in a situation or organization.

彼は交渉で有用な役割を果たした。

Formal
"時間を有用に使う"

— To make the most of one's time; to be productive.

休日を有用に使いたい。

Neutral
"有用性を実証する"

— To prove the utility or effectiveness of something through evidence.

新薬の有用性を実証する。

Academic
"有用な一石を投じる"

— To cast a useful stone (to start a meaningful debate or change).

彼の発言は議論に有用な一石を投じた。

Formal
"有用な人材として重用される"

— To be given an important position as a useful person.

彼は有用な人材として重用されている。

Business
"有用な知見を得る"

— To gain useful insights or knowledge.

調査から有用な知見を得た。

Academic
"有用な手を打つ"

— To take a useful/effective measure.

不況に対して有用な手を打つ。

Business
"有用な道を開く"

— To open a useful path or possibility.

この研究は新しい治療への有用な道を開いた。

Formal
"有用な盾となる"

— To serve as a useful shield (protection).

彼の助言が有用な盾となった。

Literary

Fácil de confundir

有用 vs 優秀 (Yūshū)

Both start with 'yū' and describe positive qualities.

Yūshū means 'excellent' or 'talented' (describing high quality), while Yūyō means 'useful' (describing utility).

優秀な学生 (excellent student) vs 有用な人材 (useful talent).

有用 vs 有望 (Yūbō)

Both start with 'yū'.

Yūbō means 'promising' (having a bright future), while Yūyō means 'useful' (having current utility).

有望な新人 (promising newcomer).

有用 vs 有効 (Yūkō)

Both start with 'yū' and relate to effectiveness.

Yūkō means 'valid' or 'effective' (e.g., a valid ticket or an effective medicine), whereas Yūyō is 'useful'.

有効なパスポート (valid passport).

有用 vs 利用 (Riyō)

Both involve the concept of 'use'.

Riyō is a verb/noun meaning 'the act of using', while Yūyō is an adjective describing 'the quality of being useful'.

施設を利用する (use the facility).

有用 vs 通用 (Tsūyō)

Both end with 'yō'.

Tsūyō means 'to be accepted' or 'to pass' (e.g., a currency being accepted), while Yūyō is 'useful'.

世界で通用する (be accepted worldwide).

Patrones de oraciones

A1

[Noun] は 有用です。

この本は有用です。

A2

[Noun] は [Purpose] に 有用です。

このサイトは勉強に有用です。

B1

有用な [Noun] を [Verb]。

有用な情報を集めます。

B1

[Noun] を 有用に [Verb]。

時間を有用に使います。

B2

[Noun] の 有用性 は [Adjective]。

この技術の有用性は高い。

C1

[Noun] において 有用な役割を果たす。

彼はチームにおいて有用な役割を果たしている。

C1

[Noun] が 有用であることは 言を俟たない。

このデータが有用であることは言を俟たない。

C2

有用性の観点から [Verb]。

有用性の観点から分析する。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

有用性 (yūyō-sei) - utility/usefulness

Verbos

有用にする (yūyō ni suru) - to make useful

Adjetivos

有用な (yūyō na) - useful

Relacionado

有益 (yūeki)
有効 (yūkō)
利用 (riyō)
活用 (katsuyō)
使用 (shiyō)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Common in professional, academic, and media contexts. Rare in casual daily speech.

Errores comunes
  • Calling a person 'yūyō' in a romantic context. 頼りになる (tayori ni naru - reliable)

    Calling a partner 'yūyō' makes them sound like an appliance. Use 'tayori ni naru' to show you rely on them emotionally.

  • Using 'yūyō' for a nearby shop. 便利 (benri - convenient)

    A shop is convenient because of its location (benri), not because it's a 'useful tool' (yūyō).

  • Saying 'yūyō jōhō' without 'na'. 有用な情報 (yūyō na jōhō)

    As a na-adjective, the 'na' is grammatically required when modifying a noun.

  • Confusing 'yūyō' with 'yūyō' (猶予). Contextual awareness.

    While they sound the same, 'grace period' (猶予) is a noun usually found in legal/debt contexts. 'Useful' (有用) is an adjective.

  • Using 'yūyō' for 'meaningful'. 有意義 (yūigi)

    If you had a 'meaningful' time, use 'yūigi'. 'Yūyō' is for functional utility.

Consejos

Don't forget the 'Na'

Since 'yūyō' is a na-adjective, you must use 'na' when it precedes a noun. 'Yūyō na jōhō' (useful information) is correct, while 'yūyō jōhō' is less common/natural.

Business Essential

In Japanese job interviews, describing how your skills will be 'yūyō' for the company is a great way to show professionalism and value.

Utility vs. Convenience

Think of 'yūyō' as 'effectiveness' and 'benri' as 'ease'. A heavy encyclopedia is 'yūyō' for research but not 'benri' to carry around.

Academic Tone

When writing essays, use 'yūyō' instead of 'yaku ni tatsu' to immediately elevate your writing to a more academic and serious level.

News Keywords

When you hear 'yūyō' on the news, pay attention to the topic. It's usually about technology, medicine, or resources that benefit the country.

Word Pairing

Learn it as a pair with 'jinzai' (talent/human resources). 'Yūyō na jinzai' is a very common set phrase in corporate Japan.

The Kanji Logic

Focus on the kanji: Have (有) + Use (用). If something 'has a use', it is 'useful'. This logic works for many Japanese kango.

Praising Others

Use 'yūyō' to praise someone's contribution in a project. 'Yūyō na giken o arigatō' (Thank you for the useful opinion) sounds very respectful.

Long Vowels Matter

Make sure to stretch the 'u' and 'o'. If you say it too fast, it might sound like 'yuyo' which could be confusing in a professional setting.

Daily Utility Check

Every evening, write one sentence in your journal about one 'yūyō na koto' (useful thing) you learned that day.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'YOU' (yū) using a 'YO-YO' (yō). A yo-yo is a tool that 'has a use' (is useful) for entertainment!

Asociación visual

Imagine a toolbox where every tool is glowing because it has 'utility' (yūyō).

Word Web

Tool Benefit Skill Data Advice Effective Purpose Valuable

Desafío

Try to find three things in your office that are 'yūyō' and describe why using the pattern '[Item] wa [Purpose] ni yūyō desu'.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from Middle Chinese roots. The word entered the Japanese language as 'kango' (Sino-Japanese vocabulary).

Significado original: To have a practical application or business use.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Contexto cultural

Avoid calling people 'yūyō' in casual, emotional contexts as it can sound cold and utilitarian.

In English, 'useful' is very versatile. In Japanese, 'yūyō' is more restricted to formal/functional contexts.

The concept of 'Useful Knowledge' in Meiji era translations. Business management books often discuss 'Yūyō na Jinzai'. Scientific papers regarding 'Yūyō na Saikin' (Useful Bacteria/Probiotics).

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Business

  • 有用な人材
  • 有用なデータ
  • 有用な戦略
  • 時間を有用に使う

Academic

  • 有用な文献
  • 有用な理論
  • 有用性を検証する
  • 有用な示唆

Science

  • 有用な成分
  • 有用な細菌
  • 有用な物質
  • 有用性が高い

IT/Tech

  • 有用なツール
  • 有用な機能
  • 有用なコード
  • 有用なサイト

Self-Improvement

  • 有用な習慣
  • 有用なアドバイス
  • 時間を有用に活用する
  • 有用なスキル

Inicios de conversación

"最近、仕事で何か有用なツールを見つけましたか? (Have you found any useful tools for work lately?)"

"勉強を効率的に進めるために、何が一番有用だと思いますか? (What do you think is most useful for studying efficiently?)"

"あなたのキャリアにとって、最も有用だった経験は何ですか? (What was the most useful experience for your career?)"

"この新しいアプリの有用性について、どう思いますか? (What do you think about the utility of this new app?)"

"時間をより有用に使うために、何か工夫をしていますか? (Are you doing anything specific to use your time more usefully?)"

Temas para diario

今日学んだことの中で、最も有用だった情報は何ですか? (What was the most useful piece of information you learned today?)

自分の持っているスキルのうち、社会に最も有用なものは何だと思いますか? (Which of your skills do you think is most useful to society?)

もし時間を完全になんでも有用に使えるとしたら、何をしますか? (If you could use your time completely usefully for anything, what would you do?)

最近買ったもので、期待以上に有用だったものはありますか? (Is there anything you bought recently that was more useful than expected?)

「有用であること」と「幸せであること」は、あなたにとってどう関係していますか? (How are 'being useful' and 'being happy' related to you?)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, but only in a professional context like 'yūyō na jinzai' (useful talent). In casual settings, it sounds like you are treating them as an object, so it's better to use 'shinsetsu' (kind) or 'yaku ni tatsu' (helpful).

'Benri' is for subjective convenience (e.g., 'this store is near, so it's benri'). 'Yūyō' is for objective utility (e.g., 'this data is yūyō for our analysis'). Use 'benri' for daily life and 'yūyō' for work/study.

It is very common in newspapers, textbooks, and business meetings. You might not hear it much in casual anime or daily conversations with friends, where 'yaku ni tatsu' is preferred.

It's a na-adjective. You can say 'Kore wa yūyō na mono desu' (This is a useful thing) or 'Kore wa yūyō desu' (This is useful). To say 'useful for...', use '〜に有用' (ni yūyō).

Not necessarily. It implies utility. 'Yūeki' is the word that specifically implies profit or a positive outcome. 'Yūyō' is more about the tool or method being effective.

It is the noun form, meaning 'utility' or 'usefulness'. It is used in formal writing to discuss how useful something is as an abstract concept.

No, it is a noun/adjective. To use it as a verb, you would say 'yūyō ni suru' (to make useful) or use 'katsuyō suru' (to utilize).

Yes, it is a formal and polite word. It is perfectly suitable for talking to superiors or in professional writing.

The most direct antonym is 'muyō' (useless/unnecessary). You can also use 'yaku ni tatanai' (not helpful).

Only if you are talking about its 'useful components' (yūyō na seibun) in a scientific way. You wouldn't say a sandwich is 'yūyō' because it tastes good; you'd say it's 'oishii' (delicious).

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Translate: 'This book is useful for studying Japanese.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Please use your time usefully.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用な人材'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I found a useful website.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用性'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'This information is extremely useful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用なアドバイス'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'It is important to utilize resources usefully.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用な役割'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'This method is useful for data analysis.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I want to become a useful person.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用な文献'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The utility of the new model is proven.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用な成分'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'How can we use this usefully?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用な手段'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'We should share useful information.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用な教訓'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The dictionary was useful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '有用なツール'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe a useful tool you use for work or study.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell a story about a time you received 'yūyō na advice'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain why you want to become 'yūyō na jinzai'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the 'yūyō-sei' of the internet.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

How do you use your free time 'yūyō ni'?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Compare 'benri' and 'yūyō' with examples.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about a 'yūyō na shokubutsu' (useful plant).

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Give a short speech about 'yūyō na jōhō'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Scenario: You are in a meeting. Evaluate a new proposal using 'yūyō'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe a 'yūyō na lesson' you learned from a mistake.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain the 'yūyō-sei' of learning Japanese.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'yūyō na shigen' (useful resources) in your country.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss a 'yūyō na website' you recently found.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

How can a company keep 'yūyō na jinzai'?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe 'yūyō na bacteria' in food.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'yūyō na skill' for the 21st century.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain 'yūyō na role' in a basketball team.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

What is 'yūyō na method' to stay healthy?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the 'yūyō-sei' of AI.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Summarize why 'yūyō' is an important word for learners.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Kore wa yūyō na jōhō desu'. Is it useful or useless?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Jikan o yūyō ni tsukaimashō'. Does he want to waste time?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker mentions 'yūyō na jinzai'. Is he talking about a person or a tool?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō-sei wa mada wakarimasen'. Is the utility proven?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na advice o arigatō'. Is he grateful?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Muyō na mono wa sutete'. Should you keep the item?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Kore wa benri desu'. Is this more or less formal than 'yūyō'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na shigen ga nai'. Does the place have resources?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na yakuwari o hatashita'. Did the person help?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na seibun ga hairu'. Is the product healthy?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na jōhō o kyōyū suru'. What is happening?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na koto o manabu'. What is the person doing?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na dōgu o tsukau'. What is being used?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Yūyō na houhou o sagasu'. What is the person looking for?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: The speaker says 'Kiwamete yūyō da'. How useful is it?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

¿Te ha servido?
¡No hay comentarios todavía. Sé el primero en compartir tus ideas!