Meaning
To utilize an opportunity effectively for one's benefit.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'ikasu' is tied to the Shinto belief that spirits reside in all things. Using something to its full potential is a form of respect. In corporate Japan, 'ikasu' is a keyword for 'human resource optimization.' Companies want to 'ikasu' their employees' hidden talents. In flower arrangement, the goal is to 'ikasu' the natural curve of a branch rather than forcing it into a shape. On Japanese Twitter/X, people use #チャンスを生かす to share stories of small wins or finding lucky deals.
The 'Sekkaku' Combo
Always pair this with 'Sekkaku' (せっかく) to sound like a pro. 'Sekkaku no chansu o ikasu' (To make the most of a hard-won chance).
Don't say 'Chance o Tsukau'
While understandable, it sounds like you are using the 'chance' as a physical object, like a hammer. Stick to 'ikasu'.
Meaning
To utilize an opportunity effectively for one's benefit.
The 'Sekkaku' Combo
Always pair this with 'Sekkaku' (せっかく) to sound like a pro. 'Sekkaku no chansu o ikasu' (To make the most of a hard-won chance).
Don't say 'Chance o Tsukau'
While understandable, it sounds like you are using the 'chance' as a physical object, like a hammer. Stick to 'ikasu'.
Humble Usage
When someone praises you, you can say 'Okage-sama de, chansu o ikasemasu' (Thanks to you, I can make the most of this chance).
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of {生|い}かす.
留学の経験を（ ）仕事がしたいです。
We need an adjective form to describe 'shigoto' (job). '{生|い}かした' (a job that utilized...) or '{生|い}かせる' (a job that can utilize...) are best.
Which sentence is the most natural for a job interview?
Choose the best option:
'Ikasu' is the standard professional term for applying skills.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 試合、負けちゃったね。 B: うん。でも、この失敗を次に（ ）よ。
The volitional form '{生|い}かそう' (let's use/utilize) fits the context of learning from failure.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You have a lot of leftover vegetables and you make a delicious soup.
When talking about ingredients, we use '{素材|そざい}' (materials/ingredients).
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises留学の経験を（ ）仕事がしたいです。
We need an adjective form to describe 'shigoto' (job). '{生|い}かした' (a job that utilized...) or '{生|い}かせる' (a job that can utilize...) are best.
Choose the best option:
'Ikasu' is the standard professional term for applying skills.
A: 試合、負けちゃったね。 B: うん。でも、この失敗を次に（ ）よ。
The volitional form '{生|い}かそう' (let's use/utilize) fits the context of learning from failure.
Situation: You have a lot of leftover vegetables and you make a delicious soup.
When talking about ingredients, we use '{素材|そざい}' (materials/ingredients).
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsYes, generally. It implies a 'good' use of something. For negative exploitation, use 'tsukekomu'.
Yes, but be careful. 'Hito o ikasu' means to put people in roles where they can shine, not to 'use' them for your own gain.
'Katsuyou suru' is more formal and often used for data or resources. 'Ikasu' is more common in daily speech and sports.
Yes! 'Shippai o ikasu' (to learn from failure) is a very common and positive expression.
Absolutely. It is one of the most important words for a Japanese resume.
Related Phrases
{機会|きかい}を{逃|のが}す
contrastTo miss an opportunity.
{本領|ほんりょう}を{発揮|はっき}する
similarTo show one's true ability.
{一石二鳥|いっせきにちょう}
builds onKilling two birds with one stone.
{棚|たな}からぼたもち
similarA lucky windfall.
