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A2 verb #250 le plus courant 8 min de lecture

使う

tsukau Top 250

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 使う en 30 secondes

Explication 使う in your Level:

At the A1 level, '使う' (tsukau) is introduced as a basic action verb meaning 'to use.' Learners focus on simple sentences involving physical objects. The primary grammar point is the '[Object] を使う' structure. At this stage, you learn the polite form '使います' (tsukaimasu) and how to ask simple questions like 'Can I use this?' (これ、使ってもいいですか？). The focus is on immediate, concrete needs: using a pen, using a phone, or using a dictionary. You also learn the negative form '使わない' (tsukawanai) to say you don't use something. The goal is to build a foundation for describing daily activities and asking for permission in a classroom or home setting. Vocabulary is limited to common nouns like 'pen,' 'hashi' (chopsticks), and 'sumaho' (smartphone).

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At the A2 level, learners expand their use of '使う' to include more abstract concepts like time and money. You begin to use the 'Te-form' (使って) to connect actions, such as 'using a tool to do something' (e.g., 'Using a computer to write an email'). The potential form '使える' (tsukaeru - can use) becomes important here, allowing you to talk about your abilities or whether a service is available (e.g., 'I can use a little Japanese' or 'Can I use a credit card?'). You also learn the noun form '使い方' (tsukaikata), which means 'how to use.' This is incredibly helpful for asking for instructions. The context shifts from simple objects to more complex daily scenarios like shopping, working, and traveling. You start to notice the difference between 'tsukau' and more formal words like 'riyou suru' in public spaces.

At the B1 level, the nuances of '使う' become more prominent. You learn idiomatic expressions like '気を使う' (ki wo tsukau - to be considerate) and '頭を使う' (atama wo tsukau - to use one's head). These phrases move beyond the literal 'use' and into the realm of social interaction and mental effort. You also start to use '使う' in more complex grammatical structures, such as the passive voice '使われる' (tsukawareru - to be used) and the causative '使わせる' (tsukawaseru - to make someone use). The focus shifts toward natural-sounding Japanese and understanding the social implications of the word. For example, you learn that 'using' a person can sound derogatory and how to navigate that. You are expected to distinguish between 'tsukau' and 'riyou suru' (utilize) in most contexts and use the appropriate formality level.

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At the B2 level, '使う' is used in sophisticated ways to describe strategies, resources, and complex social dynamics. You might encounter it in discussions about economics (spending resources), psychology (using defense mechanisms), or literature. The focus is on the subtle differences between '使う', '用いる' (mochiiru), and '活用する' (katsuyou suru). You are expected to understand how '使う' functions in compound verbs and formal speech (Keigo), such as 'お使いになる' (otsukai ni naru - honorific use). You can discuss the 'usage' of words in different dialects or historical periods. The level of abstraction increases, and you can explain the logic behind 'using' a specific method over another. Your ability to use the word in debate and formal presentations is refined.

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At the C1 level, '使う' is analyzed in its most nuanced forms. You understand its role in classical Japanese (where it originated) and its evolution into modern usage. You can identify the specific 'flavor' that '使う' brings to a sentence compared to its Sino-Japanese (Kango) counterparts. You use it in high-level academic or professional writing to describe the 'employment' of theories or methodologies. Idioms involving '使う' are used fluently and appropriately in varied social contexts. You can also recognize and use rare or archaic forms of the word in literature. The focus is on stylistic choice—knowing exactly when '使う' is the most powerful or appropriate word to convey a specific tone, whether it's the coldness of 'using someone' or the warmth of 'using one's heart' (心を使う).

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At the C2 level, mastery of '使う' is absolute. You can use the word with the precision of a native speaker, including its most obscure idiomatic and metaphorical applications. You are sensitive to the rhythmic and aesthetic qualities of the word in poetry or prose. You can discuss the etymological roots of '使う' and how it relates to the concept of 'servitude' or 'mission' (as seen in the word 'tsukai' - messenger). In professional settings, you can navigate the complex honorific systems involving '使う' without hesitation. You can also critique the 'usage' of language itself, using '使う' to discuss linguistic trends and societal changes. At this level, the word is no longer just a tool for communication but a versatile instrument for expressing deep philosophical and cultural nuances.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

使う en 30 secondes

Tsukau is the general Japanese verb for 'to use'.
It applies to tools, money, time, and mental effort.
It is a Group 1 (Godan) verb; polite form is 'tsukaimasu'.
Common idioms include 'ki wo tsukau' (to be considerate).

The Japanese verb 使う (tsukau) is one of the most fundamental and versatile words in the Japanese language, roughly equivalent to the English verb 'to use.' At its core, it describes the action of employing a tool, a method, or a resource to achieve a specific purpose. However, its application extends far beyond simple physical objects. In Japanese, tsukau is used for spending money, consuming time, employing people, and even managing one's own internal energy or attention.

Physical Tools: This is the most common usage. Whether you are using a pen (ペンを使う), chopsticks (箸を使う), or a computer (パソコンを使う), this verb covers the basic act of handling an instrument.
Abstract Resources: When you spend time (時間を使う) or spend money (お金を使う), you are 'using' these resources. It implies a consumption or allocation of something limited.
Mental and Emotional Effort: One of the most culturally significant uses is '気を使う' (ki wo tsukau), which means to be considerate or to pay attention to others' needs. Here, you are 'using' your spirit or energy.

毎日、仕事でパソコンを使う。(Mainichi, shigoto de pasokon wo tsukau.) - I use a computer for work every day.

Understanding tsukau requires recognizing its role as a 'Godan' verb (Group 1). This means its ending changes based on the following grammar. For example, in polite speech, it becomes 使います (tsukaimasu). In the negative, it becomes 使わない (tsukawanai). Because it is so common, you will encounter it in almost every conversation, from asking for directions ('Which road should I use?') to ordering food ('Do you use organic vegetables?').

この言葉は、友達との会話でよく使う。(Kono kotoba wa, tomodachi to no kaiwa de yoku tsukau.) - I often use this word in conversations with friends.

In a broader linguistic context, tsukau is the default verb for 'use' until you reach more specific or formal contexts where words like riyou suru (to utilize/make use of) or mochiiru (to employ/use - formal) take over. For a beginner or intermediate learner, mastering tsukau provides a massive boost in communicative ability because it bridges the gap between physical actions and abstract concepts.

The grammatical structure for 使う (tsukau) follows the standard Japanese Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) pattern. The object being used is marked by the particle を (wo). If you are using a tool to perform another action, you often use the 'Te-form' of the verb: 使って (tsukatte).

Basic Direct Object: [Object] を使う. Example: 辞書を使う (Jisho wo tsukau) - To use a dictionary.
Using a Tool for an Action: [Tool] を使って [Action]. Example: 箸を使って食べる (Hashi wo tsukatte taberu) - To eat using chopsticks.
Spending/Consuming: [Resource] を使う. Example: お金を使う (Okane wo tsukau) - To spend money.

スマホを使って、地図を見ます。(Sumaho wo tsukatte, chizu wo mimasu.) - I look at the map using my smartphone.

One important aspect of tsukau is its potential form: 使える (tsukaeru), meaning 'can use' or 'is usable.' This is frequently used to describe someone's skills (e.g., 'I can use Japanese') or the functionality of an object (e.g., 'This credit card can be used here').

ここではクレジットカードが使えますか？(Koko de wa kurejitto kaado ga tsukaemasu ka?) - Can I use a credit card here?

When you want to ask for permission to use something, you use the pattern 〜を使ってもいいですか？ (tsukatte mo ii desu ka?). This is a polite and essential phrase for any traveler or student in Japan. Conversely, the passive form 使われる (tsukawareru) is used when an object 'is used' by someone, often seen in technical manuals or descriptions of customs.

You will hear 使う (tsukau) in almost every corner of Japanese life. From the moment you enter a convenience store to a high-level business meeting, the word appears in various forms and contexts. It is a 'high-frequency' word that acts as a linguistic Swiss Army knife.

In Stores and Restaurants: Staff might ask if you have a point card: 'ポイントカードはお使いですか？' (Pointo kaado wa otsukai desu ka?). Here, the polite prefix 'o' is added.
At School or Work: Teachers or colleagues will explain how to use software or tools: 'このアプリの使い方を教えます' (Kono apuri no tsukaikata wo oshiemasu - I will teach you how to use this app).
In Daily Socializing: Friends might discuss their habits: '最近、お金を使いすぎた' (Saikin, okane wo tsukaisugita - I spent too much money lately).

すみません、トイレを使ってもいいですか？(Sumimasen, toire wo tsukatte mo ii desu ka?) - Excuse me, may I use the restroom?

In media, such as anime or drama, you might hear the phrase '頭を使え!' (Atama wo tsukae! - Use your head/Think!). This imperative form is common in high-stress situations or when one character is frustrated with another's lack of logic. On the other hand, in a more gentle context, someone might say '気を使わないでください' (Ki wo tsukawanai de kudasai - Please don't go to any trouble for me), which is a standard way to decline excessive hospitality.

このペン、使ってみる？(Kono pen, tsukatte miru?) - Do you want to try using this pen?

Finally, in the world of technology, 'user' is translated as 'ユーザー' (yuuzaa), but the action they perform is always tsukau. When you 'use' a service or 'use' a feature, this verb remains the primary choice for natural-sounding Japanese.

While 使う (tsukau) is versatile, English speakers often make mistakes by over-applying it or confusing it with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. The most common pitfall is failing to distinguish between tsukau and riyou suru.

Tsukau vs. Riyou suru: Tsukau is for general use (tools, money). Riyou suru (利用する) is more about 'utilizing' a facility or a system for your benefit (e.g., using a library or a gym).
Tsukau vs. Shiyou suru: Shiyou suru (使用する) is the formal, technical version of tsukau. Using shiyou in casual conversation sounds like a robot or a textbook.
Conjugation Errors: Since it ends in 'u', beginners sometimes treat it like a Group 2 verb (tsuka-nai instead of tsukawa-nai). Remember the 'w' appears in the negative form: tsukawanai.

❌ お金を利用する (Okane wo riyou suru) - Incorrect for 'spending money'.
✅ お金を使う (Okane wo tsukau) - Correct.

Another mistake is using tsukau when you should use kiru (to wear) or haku (to put on). In English, we might say 'I use a hat' (rarely), but in Japanese, you never 'use' clothes; you 'wear' them. Similarly, you don't 'use' a seat; you 'sit' (suwaru) in it, although you can 'use' a seat in the sense of 'occupying' it in very specific contexts.

❌ 日本語を使うのが上手です (Tsukau no ga jouzu desu).
✅ 日本語を話すのが上手です (Hanasu no ga jouzu desu). - While 'tsukau' isn't strictly wrong for 'using a language', 'hanasu' (speak) is much more natural when complimenting someone's ability.

Lastly, don't forget the particle. It's almost always wo tsukau. Using ni tsukau or ga tsukau changes the meaning significantly (e.g., 'to use FOR something' or 'the object uses').

While 使う (tsukau) is the general-purpose word for 'use,' Japanese has several synonyms that offer more precision depending on the formality and the nature of the 'using.'

利用する (Riyou suru): Focuses on 'utilizing' something for its intended benefit or advantage. Often used for facilities (library, hotel) or opportunities. It has a more positive, 'effective' nuance than tsukau.
使用する (Shiyou suru): The formal/technical equivalent. You see this on signs (e.g., 'Currently in use' - 使用中) and in manuals. It sounds cold and objective.
用いる (Mochiiru): A highly formal and literary word. It is used in academic writing or formal speeches to mean 'to employ' a method or a specific tool. It sounds very sophisticated.
活用する (Katsuyou suru): Means 'to make the most of' or 'to put to practical use.' It implies using something in a clever or efficient way to get the best results.

空いた時間を活用して、勉強します。(Aita jikan wo katsuyou shite, benkyou shimasu.) - I make the most of my free time to study.

When comparing these, think of tsukau as the everyday 'hammer.' It does the job. Riyou suru is like 'taking advantage of a service,' shiyou suru is the 'technical operation' of the hammer, and mochiiru is 'the strategic employment of the hammer in a historical context.' For learners, sticking to tsukau is safe, but recognizing riyou and shiyou is crucial for reading signs and understanding formal announcements.

In summary, choose your 'use' verb based on the 'what' and the 'where.' Everyday objects? Tsukau. Public facilities? Riyou. Formal documents? Shiyou or Mochiiru. Efficiency? Katsuyou.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The kanji '使' originally depicted a person (亻) and a government official/messenger (吏), reflecting the original meaning of 'to serve' or 'to send on a mission.' This is why 'ambassador' (大使) and 'angel' (天使) use the same character!

Guide de prononciation

UK tsɯᵝkaɯᵝ

US tsukaʊ

The pitch accent is 'Heiban' (flat), meaning the pitch starts low and stays high for the rest of the word: tsu-KAU.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The kanji is common and the reading is straightforward for A2 learners.

Écriture 3/5

The kanji '使' has 8 strokes and is relatively easy to remember, but the 'w' in 'tsukawanai' is a common spelling trap.

Expression orale 1/5

Very easy to pronounce and essential for daily communication.

Écoute 2/5

Easily recognized in speech, though polite forms like 'otsukai' might be slightly harder to catch.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

する (to do) もの (thing) お金 (money) 時間 (time) ペン (pen)

Apprends ensuite

利用する (to utilize) 役立つ (to be useful) 慣れる (to get used to) 選ぶ (to choose) 捨てる (to throw away)

Avancé

駆使する (to command) 充てる (to allocate) 費やす (to spend) 用いる (to employ) 活用する (to make the most of)

Grammaire à connaître

Te-form for Means/Method

スマホを使って予約しました。 (I made a reservation using my smartphone.)

Potential Form (~eru)

このペンはもう使えません。 (This pen is no longer usable.)

Stem + Kata (How to)

使い方がわかりません。 (I don't know how to use it.)

Passive Form (~areru)

この言葉は若者に使われています。 (This word is used by young people.)

Stem + Sugiru (Overuse)

お金を使いすぎないで。 (Don't spend too much money.)

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Exemples par niveau

ペンを使います。

I use a pen.

Basic [Object] + を + 使う (polite form).

箸を使ってもいいですか？

May I use chopsticks?

~てもいいですか is the pattern for asking permission.

この辞書を使いなさい。

Use this dictionary.

~なさい is a gentle but firm command form.

私はスマホを使いません。

I don't use a smartphone.

Negative polite form: 使わない -> 使いません.

毎日、水を使います。

I use water every day.

Focus on a daily necessity.

名前を書いてください。このペンを使って。

Please write your name. Use this pen.

Te-form (使って) used to connect instructions.

これを使いますか？

Will you use this?

Simple question form.

パソコンを使うのは楽しいです。

Using a computer is fun.

Nominalizing the verb with 'no wa'.

仕事で英語を使います。

I use English at work.

'De' particle marks the context/location of use.

このアプリの使い方を教えてください。

Please tell me how to use this app.

'Tsukaikata' (stem + kata) means 'how to use'.

お金を使いすぎました。

I spent too much money.

'Tsukaisugiru' (stem + sugiru) means 'to use too much'.

ここではカードが使えます。

You can use cards here.

Potential form 'tsukaeru' indicates possibility/ability.

辞書を使って、本を読みます。

I read books using a dictionary.

Te-form used to show the means or method.

もっと時間を使いたいです。

I want to use more time (on this).

Tai-form (stem + tai) expresses desire.

どのバスを使えばいいですか？

Which bus should I use?

Conditional 'eba' form used for seeking advice.

彼は箸を上手に使います。

He uses chopsticks skillfully.

Adverb 'jouzu ni' modifying the verb.

周りの人に気を使って疲れた。

I'm tired from being so considerate of people around me.

'Ki wo tsukau' is a common idiom for being considerate.

もっと頭を使って考えなさい。

Think more using your head (think harder).

'Atama wo tsukau' means to think logically or use one's brain.

この言葉は、あまり使われません。

This word is not used very much.

Passive form 'tsukawareru' for general usage.

彼は部下を顎で使う。

He orders his subordinates around (uses them with his chin).

Idiom 'ago de tsukau' means to boss people around.

魔法を使って、ドアを開けました。

He opened the door using magic.

Abstract 'means' using the Te-form.

エネルギーを無駄に使わないで。

Don't use energy wastefully.

'Muda ni' (wastefully) modifying 'tsukau'.

この部屋は会議に使われています。

This room is being used for a meeting.

Passive continuous form 'tsukawarete iru'.

道具を正しく使うことが大切です。

It is important to use tools correctly.

Nominalizing the phrase with 'koto'.

最新の技術を使って、この製品を作りました。

We made this product using the latest technology.

Using 'tsukatte' for advanced methodology.

限られた予算をどう使うかが問題だ。

The problem is how to use the limited budget.

'Dou tsukau ka' (how to use) as a noun clause.

彼は自分のコネを使って、その仕事を得た。

He got that job using his connections.

Metaphorical use for social resources.

言葉を慎重に使う必要があります。

It is necessary to use words carefully.

'Shinchou ni' (carefully) for nuanced communication.

この薬は、医師の指示に従って使ってください。

Please use this medicine according to the doctor's instructions.

Formal instructional context.

彼は、人を使いこなすのが上手だ。

He is good at managing (handling) people.

Compound verb 'tsukaikonasu' (to use skillfully/master).

古い建物を美術館として使っている。

They are using an old building as an art museum.

'~toshite tsukau' (use as...).

時間を有効に使うためのヒント。

Tips for using time effectively.

'Yuukou ni' (effectively) for resource management.

著者は、巧みな比喩を使って感情を表現している。

The author expresses emotions using skillful metaphors.

Literary context for 'tsukatte'.

権力を私的に使うことは許されない。

Using power for private gain is not permitted.

Abstract/Ethical context for 'tsukau'.

この素材は、古くから建築に使われてきた。

This material has been used in architecture since ancient times.

Passive perfective form 'tsukawarete kita'.

彼は、相手の油断を使って勝利を収めた。

He secured victory by using (exploiting) his opponent's carelessness.

Exploitative nuance of 'tsukau'.

言葉の裏にある意図を読み取り、使い分ける。

Read the intention behind words and use them accordingly.

'Tsukaiwakeru' (to use differently based on context).

贅を尽くした素材をふんだんに使った料理。

A dish that uses an abundance of luxurious ingredients.

Descriptive/Adjectival use of the past form.

心理学の手法を使って、消費者の行動を分析する。

Analyze consumer behavior using psychological methods.

Academic/Professional application.

彼は、一生分の運を使い果たしたようだ。

It seems he has used up a lifetime's worth of luck.

Compound verb 'tsukaihatasu' (to use up completely).

言葉を「使う」という行為そのものに、哲学的な問いがある。

There is a philosophical question in the very act of 'using' language.

Meta-linguistic discussion.

彼は、古語を自在に使いこなす稀有な作家だ。

He is a rare author who freely masters the use of archaic language.

High-level mastery 'jizai ni tsukaikonasu'.

外交においては、沈黙さえも一つの手段として使われる。

In diplomacy, even silence is used as a means.

Strategic/Abstract usage.

その政治家は、大衆の不満を巧みに使って支持を広げた。

The politician skillfully used public dissatisfaction to expand support.

Sociopolitical manipulation context.

職人は、長年使い込まれた道具に魂が宿ると信じている。

Craftsmen believe that a soul resides in tools that have been used thoroughly for many years.

'Tsukaikomareru' (to be well-used/broken in).

彼は、自らの命を削ってまで、その使命を使い果たそうとした。

He tried to fulfill (use up) his mission even at the cost of his own life.

Deeply metaphorical/existential use.

言語の恣意性を使い、新たな意味を創造する。

Create new meanings by using the arbitrariness of language.

Linguistic/Philosophical context.

この制度は、弱者を救うためではなく、支配するために使われている。

This system is being used not to save the weak, but to dominate them.

Critical/Political analysis.

Collocations courantes

箸を使う

お金を使う

時間を使う

頭を使う

気を使う

魔法を使う

力を使う

言葉を使う

コネを使う

水を使う

Phrases Courantes

使い方

— How to use; usage instructions.

このカメラの使い方がわからない。

使い道

— Way to use; purpose of use.

ボーナスの使い道を考える。

使い勝手

— User-friendliness; how easy something is to use.

このキッチンは使い勝手がいい。

使い捨て

— Disposable; single-use.

使い捨てのコップ。

使い分け

— Using different things for different purposes.

敬語とタメ口を使い分ける。

使い込み

— Embezzlement (using money meant for something else) or long-term use.

会社の金を使い込む。

使い古し

— Used; worn out.

使い古しのタオル。

使い手

— A user or a master of a tool/weapon.

剣の使い手。

使い走り

— Errand boy; someone sent to do small tasks.

彼は使い走りにされている。

お使い

— An errand.

お使いに行ってきます。

Souvent confondu avec

使う vs 利用する (riyou suru)

Riyou is for utilizing a system/facility; Tsukau is for tools/resources.

使う vs 用いる (mochiiru)

Mochiiru is very formal/literary; Tsukau is everyday.

使う vs 着る (kiru)

You 'wear' (kiru) clothes, you don't 'use' (tsukau) them.

Expressions idiomatiques

"顎で使う"

— To boss someone around arrogantly (as if using one's chin to point).

部下を顎で使うのは良くない。

Informal/Negative

"気を使う"

— To be considerate, pay attention to others' needs, or worry about others.

彼女はいつも周りに気を使っている。

Neutral

"頭を使う"

— To think carefully or use logic.

もっと頭を使って計画を立てよう。

Neutral

"手を使う"

— To use one's hands (literally) or to use a trick/method.

どんな手を使っても勝つ。

Neutral/Strategic

"金に糸目をつけない"

— To spend money without limit (not using a 'thread' to measure it).

彼は趣味に金に糸目をつけない。

Literary

"言葉を濁す"

— To speak ambiguously (not 'using' clear words).

彼は核心については言葉を濁した。

Neutral

"人使いが荒い"

— To be a hard taskmaster; to work people too hard.

あの部長は人使いが荒い。

Informal/Negative

"使い物にならない"

— To be useless or broken.

このパソコンは古すぎて使い物にならない。

Neutral

"身を粉にする"

— To work extremely hard (using one's body until it turns to powder).

家族のために身を粉にして働く。

Literary

"知恵を絞る"

— To rack one's brains (using all one's wisdom).

みんなで知恵を絞って解決策を探す。

Neutral

Facile à confondre

使う vs 利用する

Both mean 'to use'.

Riyou implies taking advantage of something for a benefit (like a library or a discount). Tsukau is the general act of using a tool.

図書館を利用する vs. ペンを使う

使う vs 使用する

Both mean 'to use'.

Shiyou is formal and technical. You see it on signs. Tsukau is spoken and natural.

使用禁止 (Use prohibited) vs. これ、使わないで。

使う vs 用いる

Both mean 'to use'.

Mochiiru is literary and academic. It's rarely used in conversation.

筆を用いる (Employ a brush - formal).

使う vs 活用する

Both mean 'to use'.

Katsuyou means to use effectively or 'make the most of'.

知識を活用する (Put knowledge to practical use).

使う vs 費やす

Both can mean 'to spend'.

Tsuiyasu is specifically for large amounts of time, money, or energy.

巨費を費やす (Spend a huge amount of money).

Structures de phrases

[Object] を使います。

ペンを使います。

[Object] を使ってもいいですか？

これを使ってもいいですか？

[Tool] を使って [Action]。

箸を使って食べます。

[Object] の使い方。

カメラの使い方がわかります。

[Resource] を使いすぎる。

お金を使いすぎました。

[Object] が使える。

日本語が使えます。

[Object] を [Purpose] に使う。

この布を掃除に使います。

[Object] が [Passive] られている。

この技術は世界中で使われている。

Famille de mots

Noms

使い方 (tsukaikata - how to use)

使い道 (tsukaimichi - way to use)

使い手 (tsukaite - user)

使用 (shiyou - use/utilization)

Verbes

使いこなす (tsukaikonasu - to master)

使い分ける (tsukaiwakeru - to use properly)

使い果たす (tsukaihatasu - to use up)

使い込む (tsukaikomu - to embezzle or break in)

Adjectifs

使いやすい (tsukaiyasui - easy to use)

使いにくい (tsukainikui - hard to use)

使い勝手の良い (tsukaigatte no yoi - user-friendly)

Apparenté

大使 (taishi - ambassador)

使用人 (shiyounin - servant)

天使 (tenshi - angel)

便利 (benri - convenient)

道具 (dougu - tool)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high; top 100 most used verbs in Japanese.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'tsukau' for clothes. → Use 'kiru', 'haku', or 'kaburu'.
Japanese has specific verbs for wearing items. 'Tsukau' is only for tools/resources.
Saying 'tsukanai' for the negative. → Say 'tsukawanai'.
'Tsukau' is a Godan verb ending in 'u', so it requires a 'w' in the negative form.
Using 'riyou suru' for spending money. → Use 'okane wo tsukau'.
'Riyou suru' is for facilities or benefits, not for the act of spending currency.
Using 'tsukau' to mean 'to rely on a person'. → Use 'tayoru'.
'Tsukau' a person sounds like you are treating them as an object or subordinate.
Using 'shiyou suru' in casual conversation. → Use 'tsukau'.
'Shiyou suru' is too formal and sounds unnatural in daily talk with friends.

Astuces

The 'W' in Negative

Remember that for verbs ending in 'u', the negative form uses 'wa'. So 'tsukau' becomes 'tsukawanai', not 'tsukanai'.

Ki wo Tsukau

In Japan, 'ki wo tsukau' is a virtue. It means you are aware of your surroundings and others' feelings. Don't be afraid to use this phrase!

Tsukaikata

If you are ever stuck in a shop or with a new gadget, just point and say 'Tsukaikata wo oshiete kudasai' (Please teach me how to use this).

Tsukau vs Riyou

Think of 'tsukau' as 'using a tool' and 'riyou' as 'using a service'. You use a hammer, but you utilize a hotel.

Potential Form

'Tsukaeru' is very useful. 'Kore, tsukaeru?' can mean 'Is this still good?' or 'Can I use this?' in casual speech.

Kanji Practice

The kanji '使' is used in many words like 'benri' (convenient - though that's a different kanji, 'shiyou' uses it). Practice the 8 strokes!

O-tsukai

If a shopkeeper says 'O-tsukai desu ka?', they are being very polite. Just answer with 'Hai, tsukaimasu' or 'Iie'.

Atama wo Tsukau

Use this when you want to tell someone to think logically. It's common in puzzles or strategy games.

Don't 'Use' Seats

In English we say 'use the seat', but in Japanese, just say 'suwaru' (to sit) or 'koko, ii desu ka?' (is here okay?).

Tsukaisugiru

Adding 'sugiru' to the stem 'tsukai' is a great way to say you overdid something, like 'okane wo tsukaisugita' (spent too much).

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

'TSU-KAU' sounds like 'Two Cows'. Imagine you are 'using' TWO COWS to plow a field.

Association visuelle

Visualize a giant hand reaching for a Swiss Army knife that has icons for money, time, a pen, and a brain on its blades.

Word Web

Tools Money Time People Brain Consideration Language Technology

Défi

Try to use '使う' in three different ways today: once for a physical object, once for money or time, and once for the idiom 'ki wo tsukau'.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Old Japanese verb 'tukau'.

Sens originel : To serve, to perform a task, or to handle an object.

Japonic

Contexte culturel

Be careful using 'tsukau' with people. Use 'onegaishimasu' (please do) or 'tasukete' (help) instead of 'using' them unless you are their boss or in a specific strategic context.

English speakers often use 'use' for people (e.g., 'I used him'), which is almost always negative. In Japanese, 'tsukau' for people is also often negative or hierarchical, but 'ki wo tsukau' is a positive social trait.

'Tsukai' (messenger) characters in anime like Naruto or Bleach. The 'Hajimete no Otsukai' (Old Enough!) TV show about kids' first errands. The concept of 'Tsukumogami' (spirits that inhabit tools used for 100 years).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At a Restaurant

箸を使いますか？ (Do you use chopsticks?)
フォークを使ってもいいですか？ (May I use a fork?)
このクーポンは使えますか？ (Can I use this coupon?)
お手洗いを使わせてください。 (Please let me use the restroom.)

At the Office

このソフトの使い方を知っていますか？ (Do you know how to use this software?)
もっと効率的に時間を使おう。 (Let's use time more efficiently.)
会議室を使ってもいいですか？ (May I use the meeting room?)
最新の技術を使っています。 (We are using the latest technology.)

Shopping

カードは使えますか？ (Can I use a card?)
これの使い道を教えてください。 (Please tell me what this is used for.)
ポイントを使いたいです。 (I want to use my points.)
使い捨ての袋はいりません。 (I don't need a disposable bag.)

Socializing

あまり気を使わないでください。 (Please don't go to any trouble.)
頭を使ってゲームをしよう。 (Let's play a game using our brains.)
いい言葉を使おう。 (Let's use good words.)
彼は人使いが荒い。 (He is a hard taskmaster.)

Learning

辞書を使って調べます。 (I'll look it up using a dictionary.)
日本語を使って話しましょう。 (Let's speak using Japanese.)
この表現はよく使われますか？ (Is this expression used often?)
使い方が難しいです。 (The usage is difficult.)

Amorces de conversation

"普段、どんなアプリをよく使いますか？ (What apps do you usually use?)"

"料理をするとき、どんな調味料をよく使いますか？ (What seasonings do you often use when cooking?)"

"週末の時間をどう使うのが好きですか？ (How do you like to use your time on weekends?)"

"仕事で英語を使う機会はありますか？ (Do you have opportunities to use English at work?)"

"最近、一番お金を使った買い物は何ですか？ (What is the most expensive thing you've used your money on recently?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日は何に一番時間を使いましたか？ (What did you use most of your time for today?)

新しく覚えた日本語の単語をどう使いましたか？ (How did you use the new Japanese words you learned?)

「気を使う」ことは大切だと思いますか？なぜですか？ (Do you think 'being considerate' is important? Why?)

あなたが一番上手に使える道具は何ですか？ (What tool can you use most skillfully?)

もし100万円あったら、何に使いたいですか？ (If you had 1 million yen, what would you want to use it for?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, Japanese uses specific verbs for wearing clothes depending on the body part (kiru for upper body, haku for lower body, kaburu for head). You only 'use' tools or resources.

'Tsukau' is general and for tools/money. 'Riyou suru' is for facilities (like a gym) or taking advantage of an opportunity. For example, you 'tsukau' a pen, but 'riyou' a library.

It is a Group 1 (Godan) verb. This is why the negative is 'tsukawanai' and the polite form is 'tsukaimasu'.

You use the stem of the verb plus 'kata': 'tsukaikata' (使い方).

Yes, but be careful. It can mean 'to employ' or 'to boss around'. To say you 'rely' on someone, use 'tayoru'.

It is a very common idiom meaning 'to be considerate' or 'to pay attention to others' needs'.

Yes, 'okane wo tsukau' is the standard way to say 'to spend money'.

Yes, 'nihongo wo tsukau' (to use Japanese) is common, though 'nihongo wo hanasu' (to speak Japanese) is more common when talking about ability.

The potential form is 'tsukaeru' (使える), meaning 'can use' or 'is usable'.

The most common way is 'Kore, tsukatte mo ii desu ka?'

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