At the A1 level, you will encounter ~用 (yō) as a simple way to say 'for' when talking about objects. It is most commonly seen in the phrase '自分用' (jibun-yō), which means 'for myself.' Imagine you are shopping and you buy two things: one is a gift for a friend, and one is '自分用' (for yourself). This suffix is very useful because it allows you to label things easily. You might also see it on signs for '子供用' (kodomo-yō), which means 'for children.' If you see a small chair or a kids' menu, it is '子供用.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that you put the person or the category first, and then add ~用. It's like a name tag for an object's purpose. You will see this Kanji character 用 a lot in Japan, so learning it early is very helpful. It looks like a little box with a line through it, representing a tool or a task. When you see it, think 'This is for...' or 'This is used for...' It's a very practical word that helps you understand who an item is meant for without needing a long sentence. For example, if you see a bottle of water that says 'ペット用' (petto-yō), you know it's for pets, not for you! This simple suffix makes life in Japan much easier to navigate.
At the A2 level, you start using ~用 (yō) more frequently to describe the function of everyday items. You will move beyond just 'for me' or 'for kids' and start using categories like '家庭用' (katei-yō) for home use and '業務用' (gyōmu-yō) for business or professional use. This is very common when looking at electronics or kitchen supplies. For example, a small printer is '家庭用,' but a huge copier in an office is '業務用.' You will also learn to use the particle 'の' to connect ~用 to other nouns, such as '子供用の靴' (shoes for children). This allows you to be more descriptive. Another important use at this level is for seasons, like '夏用' (natsu-yō) for summer things and '冬用' (fuyu-yō) for winter things. You might also see '左利き用' (hidarikiki-yō) for left-handed products like scissors. Understanding ~用 at the A2 level helps you make better choices when shopping and helps you understand the intended purpose of various facilities. It's a key part of functional Japanese. You should also begin to notice the difference between ~用 and '~のために.' Remember, ~用 is for categories and functions, while '~のために' is for people's feelings or benefits. If you are labeling a box of cookies for your family, you can write '家族用' (kazoku-yō). This tells everyone that these cookies are for the family to share.
At the B1 level, you will use ~用 (yō) in more specific and technical contexts. You'll encounter terms like '携帯用' (keitai-yō) for portable items, '非常用' (hijō-yō) for emergency use, and '提出用' (teishutsu-yō) for documents that need to be submitted. You will also start to see the distinction between ~用 and ~向け (muke) more clearly. While ~用 is about the physical or functional purpose, ~向け is about the target audience or marketing. For example, a textbook might be '留学生向け' (targeted at international students), but a specific form might be '留学生用' (for international students' use). At this level, you should be comfortable using ~用 in a variety of settings, including the workplace and formal situations. You might hear '会議用' (kaigi-yō) for meeting materials or '保存用' (hozon-yō) for items meant to be archived or kept as a backup. You will also see it in compound words like '外用薬' (gaiyōyaku, external medicine) or '食用油' (shokuyō-abura, cooking oil). The suffix becomes a tool for precise categorization. You should also be aware of the nuance of '専用' (sen'yō), which adds the meaning of 'exclusive' or 'only.' If a parking spot is '社員専用' (shain sen'yō), it is *only* for employees. Understanding these subtle differences allows you to communicate more accurately and understand the rules and expectations in Japanese society.
At the B2 level, ~用 (yō) is used to describe sophisticated concepts and specific industrial or academic categories. You will encounter terms like '競技用' (kyōgi-yō) for competitive sports equipment, '医療用' (iryō-yō) for medical-grade supplies, and '試験用' (shiken-yō) for testing purposes. At this stage, you should understand how ~用 can be used to create specialized terminology. For instance, '観賞用' (kanshō-yō) refers to things kept for aesthetic enjoyment, like ornamental plants or decorative fish. You will also see it in legal or official documents, such as '公用' (kōyō) for official government business or '私用' (shiyō) for private use. The ability to distinguish between these registers is crucial. You might also encounter '~用' in the context of '転用' (ten'yō, diversion/repurposing) or '流用' (ryūyō, misappropriation/misuse), where the 'use' aspect of the Kanji is central to the meaning. Furthermore, you will be expected to understand the difference between ~用 and ~向き (muki) in terms of suitability. While '初心者用' is a tool for beginners, '初心者向き' means something is well-suited for a beginner's skill level. This level of nuance is essential for natural-sounding Japanese. You should also be able to use ~用 in complex sentences, such as 'これは研究用に開発されたソフトウェアです' (This is software developed for research purposes).
At the C1 level, you will master the most nuanced and formal applications of ~用 (yō). This includes understanding its use in classical or highly formal compounds, such as '供用' (kyōyō, offering for public use) or '徴用' (chōyō, requisitioning/drafting). You will also encounter ~用 in philosophical or abstract discussions about the 'utility' or 'function' of objects and systems. For example, discussing the '実用性' (jitsuyōsei, practicality) of a new technology or the '汎用性' (han'yōsei, versatility/general-purpose use) of a software framework. At this level, you are expected to use ~用 to categorize complex data or resources in a professional or academic setting. You will also understand the historical development of the character and how it relates to other 'use' related words like '功用' (kōyō, effect/benefit) or '徳用' (tokuyō, economical/good value). Your understanding of ~用 will extend to its role in idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases used in high-level literature or news reporting. You will be able to explain the subtle difference between '業務用' (professional use) and '産業用' (industrial use) in a business context. Your mastery of this suffix will allow you to navigate the most complex Japanese environments, from legal contracts to scientific journals, where the precise definition of 'use' and 'purpose' is paramount. You will also be able to use ~用 creatively to coin new terms or describe innovative uses for existing tools.
At the C2 level, your understanding of ~用 (yō) is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You possess a deep knowledge of the etymological roots of the character and its various historical transformations. You can appreciate the use of ~用 in archaic texts or specialized legal jargon, such as '借用' (shakuyō, borrowing) or '雇用' (koyō, employment), where the 'use' of a person's labor is the focus. You are also familiar with the most obscure compounds, such as '有用性' (yūyōsei, utility) in the context of utilitarian philosophy or '無用' (muyō, useless/unnecessary) in Zen Buddhist contexts. You can effortlessly switch between different registers, using ~用 in casual conversation, professional presentations, and academic writing with perfect precision. You understand how the suffix ~用 interacts with other suffixes and particles to create complex layers of meaning. For instance, you can discuss the '専用性' (sen'yōsei, specificity/exclusivity) of a biological receptor or the '軍用' (gun'yō, military use) applications of satellite technology. Your command of ~用 allows you to engage in high-level debates about the ethics of '転用' (repurposing) technology for surveillance or the '公用' (public use) of private land. At this level, ~用 is not just a suffix but a conceptual tool that you use to analyze and describe the functional architecture of the world around you. You can also identify and correct the most subtle misuses of the term by others, demonstrating a complete and authoritative grasp of the Japanese language.

~用 em 30 segundos

  • A suffix meaning 'for' or 'intended for use by,' added to nouns to define their purpose.
  • Commonly used on labels, signs, and in retail to categorize products (e.g., for kids, for home).
  • Grammatically functions as a noun; uses 'no' to modify other nouns (e.g., [Noun]用 の [Noun]).
  • Distinct from 'tame ni' (for the sake of); ~用 is about functional category, not personal favors.
The Japanese suffix ~用 (よう, yō) is a fundamental building block of the language, functioning as a noun or a suffix that indicates purpose, destination, or intended use. At its core, it translates to 'for,' 'for the use of,' or 'intended for.' When you attach it to another noun, you are essentially creating a compound that describes who or what something is meant for. This is incredibly common in Japanese daily life, appearing on everything from product packaging to signs in public spaces. Unlike the English preposition 'for,' which can be used in many different grammatical contexts, ~用 is specifically used to categorize objects or services by their target audience or function. For example, if you see a bottle of soap labeled '子供用' (kodomo-yō), you immediately know it is formulated for children. If a parking space is marked '居住者用' (kyojūsha-yō), it is strictly for residents. The beauty of ~用 lies in its efficiency; it condenses a complex relationship into a single character.
Grammatical Category
Suffix / Noun
Core Meaning
Indicates the specific purpose or intended user of an object.
Common Usage
Used in retail, signage, and formal documentation to categorize items.
Understanding ~用 is essential for navigating Japanese society because it helps you identify which products are suitable for you and which areas you are permitted to enter. It is often contrasted with ~向け (muke), which means 'aimed at' or 'targeted towards,' but ~用 is more functional and definitive. While ~向け suggests a marketing preference, ~用 often implies a functional design or a strict rule of use. For instance, '女性向け' (josei-muke) might mean a magazine designed to appeal to women, whereas '女性用' (josei-yō) means a restroom or a product specifically engineered for female use.

これは自分用のプレゼントです。(Kore wa jibun-yō no purezento desu.) - This is a present for myself.

In this sentence, '自分用' (jibun-yō) clearly identifies the recipient of the gift. The suffix is versatile and can be attached to people (子供用 - for kids), places (家庭用 - for home use), or even specific actions (業務用 - for business/professional use). Furthermore, ~用 is used extensively in technical and medical fields. You might see '外用' (gaiyō) for external use medicine or '飲用' (inyō) for drinking use. This character 用 (yō) itself carries the meaning of 'task,' 'service,' or 'use,' which is why it is so prevalent in words like 使用 (shiyō - use) and 利用 (riyō - utilization). By mastering this suffix, you unlock the ability to read thousands of labels and signs that dictate how things should be used in Japan. It is a high-frequency character that bridges the gap between simple vocabulary and functional literacy. Whether you are buying a '携帯用' (keitai-yō) portable charger or looking for '来客用' (raikyaku-yō) guest slippers, this suffix is your guide to the intended function of the world around you.

このトイレは車椅子用です。(Kono toire wa kuruma-isu-yō desu.) - This toilet is for wheelchair use.

これは業務用の洗剤です。(Kore wa gyōmu-yō no senzai desu.) - This is a professional-use detergent.

このペンはサイン用です。(Kono pen wa sain-yō desu.) - This pen is for signing.

Using ~用 in a sentence is grammatically straightforward but requires an understanding of how it modifies other words. Primarily, ~用 functions as a suffix that attaches directly to a noun. When it does this, the resulting compound can act as a noun itself or as a 'no-adjective' (a noun that uses the particle 'no' to modify another noun). For example, '子供' (child) + '用' (for) becomes '子供用' (for children). If you want to say 'a chair for children,' you would say '子供用の椅子' (kodomo-yō no isu). Notice how the 'no' particle connects the compound to the object it describes. This is the most common pattern you will encounter.
Pattern 1: [Noun] + 用
Used as a standalone label or predicate. Example: 'これは左利き用です' (This is for left-handed use).
Pattern 2: [Noun] + 用 + の + [Noun]
Used to modify another noun. Example: '家庭用のカメラ' (A camera for home use).
Pattern 3: [Verb Stem] + 用
Less common but used in specific terms like '飲用' (for drinking) or '食用' (for eating).
It is important to note that ~用 is not used for people in the sense of 'I did this for you' (benefactive). For that, you would use '~のために' (tame ni). ~用 is strictly about the *intended purpose* or *functional category* of an object. If you make a cake for your friend, you wouldn't say '友達用のケーキ' unless you were labeling it in a refrigerator to prevent others from eating it. In casual conversation, '友達用のケーキ' sounds like a specific type of cake designed for friends, which is odd. Instead, use '友達のために作ったケーキ.'

このスリッパはお客様用です。(Kono surippa wa okyakusama-yō desu.) - These slippers are for guests.

In a Japanese household, you will often find '来客用' (raikyaku-yō) items like tea sets or towels. These are reserved specifically for guests and are not for daily family use. This highlights the 'exclusive use' nuance that ~用 often carries. Another common usage is in the workplace. '社内用' (shanai-yō) refers to documents or tools intended for internal use only, while '社外用' (shagai-yō) is for external clients. You will also see ~用 combined with time-related words. '夏用' (natsu-yō) means 'for summer use,' such as summer clothes or tires. '冬用' (fuyu-yō) means 'for winter use.' This categorization helps consumers choose the right product for the season. In the digital world, you'll see 'スマホ用' (sumaho-yō) for smartphone-optimized websites or 'PC用' (pīshī-yō) for desktop versions. The flexibility of this suffix allows it to adapt to modern technology seamlessly.

これは輸出用の車です。(Kore wa yushutsu-yō no kuruma desu.) - This is a car for export.

この薬は外用です。飲まないでください。(Kono kusuri wa gaiyō desu. Nomanaide kudasai.) - This medicine is for external use. Please do not drink it.

会議室は予約用のシステムで確認してください。(Kaigishitsu wa yoyaku-yō no shisutemu de kakunin shite kudasai.) - Please check the meeting room using the reservation system.

You will encounter ~用 in almost every facet of Japanese life, but its presence is most felt in retail environments, public facilities, and professional settings. If you walk into a Japanese drugstore (matsukiyo, etc.), you will see the aisles categorized by ~用. There are sections for '男性用' (dansei-yō, for men) and '女性用' (josei-yō, for women) skincare. You'll see '敏感肌用' (binkanhada-yō) for sensitive skin. This labeling system is incredibly efficient for shoppers. In supermarkets, you might see '加熱用' (kanetsu-yō) on seafood, meaning it must be cooked, versus '生食用' (seishoku-yō), which means it can be eaten raw as sashimi. This is a crucial distinction for food safety.
In Stores
Labels like '子供用' (kids), '業務用' (bulk/pro), and 'ペット用' (pets).
In Public
Signs for '身障者用' (for disabled persons) or '関係者用' (for staff only).
In Offices
Terms like '提出用' (for submission) or '保存用' (for archiving).
Public transportation also uses this suffix extensively. In many Japanese cities, there are '女性専用車両' (josei sen'yō sharyō), which are women-only train cars during rush hour. Here, '専用' (sen'yō) is a related term meaning 'exclusive use,' where '用' still provides the core meaning of 'use.' You will also see '優先席' (yūsenseki) which are sometimes labeled as being for 'お年寄り用' (for the elderly) or '妊婦用' (for pregnant women). In the context of technology, when you download an app, the website will often ask if you want the 'iOS用' or 'Android用' version. This suffix is the standard way to denote compatibility and target platforms.

この駐車場は軽自動車用です。(Kono chūshajō wa keijidōsha-yō desu.) - This parking lot is for light cars (kei cars) only.

If you visit a Japanese home, you might be given 'トイレ用スリッパ' (toilet-yō surippa). These are slippers intended *only* for use inside the restroom. Using them outside the restroom is a major social faux pas. This cultural practice is perfectly encapsulated by the suffix ~用. It defines the boundaries of an object's utility. In professional environments, you'll hear '業務用' (gyōmu-yō) frequently. If you go to a store like 'Gyomu Super,' you are entering a place that originally sold 'professional-use' bulk items to restaurants, though they are now popular with regular families. The term implies larger sizes and simpler packaging. Finally, in the world of hobbies, you'll see '観賞用' (kanshō-yō) for plants or fish intended for viewing (ornamental) rather than for consumption or other uses. If you buy a '競技用' (kyōgi-yō) bicycle, it means it is designed for competitive racing, not just casual commuting. The suffix ~用 effectively turns any noun into a specific functional category, making it an indispensable tool for clear communication in Japanese.

これは自分用に買いました。(Kore wa jibun-yō ni kaimashita.) - I bought this for my own use.

このノートは日記用です。(Kono nōto wa nikki-yō desu.) - This notebook is for a diary.

このタオルは洗顔用です。(Kono taoru wa sengan-yō desu.) - This towel is for washing your face.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with ~用 is using it to express personal benefit or favors, which is a role reserved for '~のために' (tame ni). In English, the word 'for' is a 'catch-all' preposition. You can say 'This is for you' (a gift) and 'This is for kids' (a category) using the same word. In Japanese, these are distinct. If you say 'あなた用' (anata-yō) to someone while giving them a gift, it sounds like you are labeling them as a 'user category,' which can feel cold or overly clinical. It sounds like 'This is for the [You] category of users.' Instead, you should say 'あなたのために' (for your sake) or simply 'どうぞ' (here you go).
Mistake 1: Confusing ~用 with ~のために
Using ~用 for personal favors. Correct: '友達のために' (for a friend). Incorrect: '友達用' (unless labeling an object for them).
Mistake 2: Overusing ~用 for General Intentions
~用 is for functional purpose. Don't use it for abstract goals like 'for peace' (heiwa no tame ni).
Mistake 3: Forgetting the 'no' Particle
When ~用 modifies another noun, you must use 'no.' Example: '子供用椅子' is okay as a compound, but '子供用の椅子' is the standard grammatical form.
Another common error is confusing ~用 with ~向け (muke). While they both translate to 'for,' ~向け implies that something was created with a certain audience in mind (targeted at), whereas ~用 implies that something is *specifically for the use of* that audience (functional). For example, a movie might be '子供向け' (targeted at kids), but a high-chair is '子供用' (for kids' use). If you use ~用 when you mean ~向け, you might sound like you're talking about a physical tool rather than a piece of content or a marketing target.

❌ 私は平和用に働いています。(I work for peace - Incorrect usage of 'yo')
✅ 私は平和のために働いています。(I work for peace - Correct usage of 'tame ni')

Additionally, learners sometimes forget that ~用 is a suffix and try to use it as a standalone preposition. You cannot say '用子供' (for children). The 'purpose' noun must always come *before* the ~用. This is a common pattern in Japanese (head-final), which is the opposite of English. Another nuance is the difference between ~用 and ~専用 (sen'yō). ~用 is general (for use by...), while ~専用 is exclusive (for the *exclusive* use of...). If you say 'スタッフ用' (staff use), it's a label. If you say 'スタッフ専用' (staff only), it's a strict rule. Using the wrong one might lead to confusion about how strictly a rule should be followed. Finally, be careful with the Kanji. The character 用 is also used in the word '用事' (yōji), which means 'errand' or 'business to attend to.' While related, they are used differently. Don't confuse '今日、用があります' (I have something to do today) with the suffix usage. The suffix usage will always be attached to another noun.

❌ これはプレゼント用の友達です。(This is a friend for a present - Nonsensical)
✅ これは友達用のプレゼントです。(This is a present for a friend - Correct if labeling)

❌ この靴は走る用です。(This shoe is for run - Incorrect grammar)
✅ この靴はランニング用です。(This shoe is for running - Correct usage with a noun)

Understanding the nuances between ~用 and its synonyms is key to sounding natural in Japanese. The most common alternatives are ~向け (muke), ~専用 (sen'yō), and ~のために (tame ni). Each has a specific context where it is the most appropriate choice.
~用 (yō)
Focuses on functional purpose or category. '子供用' means it is physically designed for or intended for children's use.
~向け (muke)
Focuses on the target audience or marketing. '子供向け' means it is made to appeal to children (like a cartoon).
~専用 (sen'yō)
Focuses on exclusivity. '自分専用' means it is for your use *only* and no one else's.
~のために (tame ni)
Focuses on benefit or reason. '子供のために' means doing something for the sake of children.
Let's look at how these differ in a real-world scenario. Imagine a bicycle. A '子供用自転車' (kodomo-yō jitensha) is a small bike with training wheels—it is functionally for kids. A '子供向け自転車' (kodomo-muke jitensha) might be a regular bike but with a marketing campaign or colors that appeal to kids. A '子供専用自転車' (kodomo-sen'yō jitensha) is a bike that *only* children are allowed to ride (perhaps in a specific park). Finally, '子供のために自転車を買う' (kodomo no tame ni jitensha o kau) means you are buying a bike *for* your child as a kind gesture.

これは初心者向けの本です。(Kore wa shoshinsha-muke no hon desu.) - This is a book for (targeted at) beginners.

In the example above, ~向け is used because a book is content aimed at an audience. If it were '初心者用,' it would sound more like a manual that is a necessary tool for a beginner to function. Another related term is ~向き (muki), which means 'suitable for.' For example, 'この仕事は彼向きだ' (This job is suitable for him). While ~用 is about intention, ~向き is about compatibility or aptitude. In formal or technical contexts, you might see '~に供する' (ni kyō suru), which is a very stiff way of saying 'to be used for.' However, for 99% of daily interactions, ~用 is the standard choice. You might also see '~としての' (toshite no), which means 'in the capacity of.' For example, 'お土産としてのプレゼント' (a present as a souvenir). This describes the *role* of the object rather than its *intended user category.*

これは女性専用の車両です。(Kore wa josei sen'yō no sharyō desu.) - This is a women-only (exclusive use) car.

この服は冬向きではありません。(Kono fuku wa fuyu-muki de wa arimasen.) - These clothes are not suitable for winter.

これは贈答用の果物です。(Kore wa zōtō-yō no kudamono desu.) - This is fruit for gift-giving (high quality).

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The character 用 is often used in Zen Buddhism to describe the 'functioning' of the mind. It is also one of the most common characters found on Japanese street signs.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /jəʊ/
US /joʊ/
The stress is even, as is typical for Japanese morae.
Rima com
Kō (high) Sō (so) Hō (direction) Mō (already) Dō (how) Tō (ten) Rō (tower) Nō (ability)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing it too long like 'yooo.' It should be a standard long vowel (yō), but not overly drawn out.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'yo' (the particle).

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The Kanji is simple and very common on signs.

Escrita 3/5

Requires remembering the stroke order for 用.

Expressão oral 2/5

Easy to attach to nouns once the concept is understood.

Audição 2/5

Distinct sound, usually clear in context.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

自分 (jibun) 子供 (kodomo) ために (tame ni) の (particle) です (desu)

Aprenda a seguir

~向け (muke) ~専用 (sen'yō) ~向き (muki) 使用 (shiyō) 利用 (riyō)

Avançado

用途 (yōto) 汎用性 (han'yōsei) 実用的 (jitsuyōteki) 徴用 (chōyō) 供用 (kyōyō)

Gramática essencial

Noun + の + Noun

子供用の靴 (Shoes for children)

~のために (Benefactive)

友達のためにケーキを作る (Make a cake for a friend)

~向け (Targeting)

若者向けのデザイン (Design for young people)

~専用 (Exclusivity)

女性専用車両 (Women-only car)

Noun + です (Predicate)

これは自分用です (This is for me)

Exemplos por nível

1

これは自分用です。

This is for myself.

自分 (myself) + 用 (for).

2

子供用の椅子があります。

There is a chair for children.

子供 (child) + 用 (for) + の (particle) + 椅子 (chair).

3

これは猫用のご飯です。

This is food for cats.

猫 (cat) + 用 (for) + の (particle) + ご飯 (food).

4

左利き用のハサミを買いました。

I bought scissors for left-handed use.

左利き (left-handed) + 用 (for).

5

このトイレは赤ちゃん用です。

This toilet is for babies.

赤ちゃん (baby) + 用 (for).

6

これは私用です。

This is for my private use.

私 (I/private) + 用 (use).

7

犬用の服はどこですか。

Where are the clothes for dogs?

犬 (dog) + 用 (for) + の (particle) + 服 (clothes).

8

このペンはサイン用です。

This pen is for signing.

サイン (signature) + 用 (for).

1

家庭用の洗濯機を買いました。

I bought a washing machine for home use.

家庭 (home) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 洗濯機 (washing machine).

2

これはギフト用の箱です。

This is a box for gift use.

ギフト (gift) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 箱 (box).

3

夏用のタイヤに交換しました。

I changed to summer-use tires.

夏 (summer) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + タイヤ (tire).

4

お客様用のスリッパを準備します。

I will prepare slippers for guests.

お客様 (guest) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + スリッパ (slippers).

5

このノートは日記用です。

This notebook is for a diary.

日記 (diary) + 用 (use).

6

これは自分用のプレゼントです。

This is a present for myself.

自分 (self) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + プレゼント (present).

7

料理用のワインはありますか。

Is there wine for cooking?

料理 (cooking) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + ワイン (wine).

8

これは携帯用の扇風機です。

This is a portable (for carrying) fan.

携帯 (carrying/portable) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 扇風機 (fan).

1

業務用の洗剤はとても強力です。

Professional-use detergent is very powerful.

業務 (business/pro) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 洗剤 (detergent).

2

非常用の持ち出し袋を準備してください。

Please prepare an emergency-use takeaway bag.

非常 (emergency) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 持ち出し袋 (takeaway bag).

3

これは提出用の書類です。

This is a document for submission.

提出 (submission) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 書類 (document).

4

スマホ用のアプリを開発しています。

I am developing an app for smartphones.

スマホ (smartphone) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + アプリ (app).

5

この水は飲用ではありません。

This water is not for drinking.

飲用 (drinking use) = 飲む (to drink) + 用 (use).

6

会議用の資料をコピーしました。

I copied the materials for the meeting.

会議 (meeting) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 資料 (materials).

7

これは保存用のデータです。

This is data for archiving.

保存 (preservation/archiving) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + データ (data).

8

外用の薬を塗ってください。

Please apply the medicine for external use.

外用 (external use) = 外 (outside) + 用 (use).

1

競技用の自転車はとても軽いです。

Bicycles for competitive use are very light.

競技 (competition) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 自転車 (bicycle).

2

これは医療用のマスクです。

This is a medical-grade (for medical use) mask.

医療 (medical) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + マスク (mask).

3

試験用のサンプルを採取しました。

We collected samples for testing.

試験 (test/exam) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + サンプル (sample).

4

この部屋は撮影用に使われます。

This room is used for filming/photography.

撮影 (filming/photography) + 用 (use) + に (particle).

5

これは観賞用の植物です。

This is an ornamental (for viewing) plant.

観賞 (viewing/appreciation) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 植物 (plant).

6

軍用の技術が民間に転用された。

Military technology was repurposed for civilian use.

軍用 (military use) = 軍 (military) + 用 (use).

7

これは研究用のソフトウェアです。

This is software for research purposes.

研究 (research) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + ソフトウェア (software).

8

展示用の模型を製作しました。

We produced a model for exhibition.

展示 (exhibition) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 模型 (model).

1

この土地は公用に供されている。

This land is being provided for public use.

公用 (public use) + に (particle) + 供されている (being provided).

2

汎用性の高いプログラミング言語を学ぶ。

Learn a programming language with high versatility (general-purpose use).

汎用性 (versatility) = 汎 (general) + 用 (use) + 性 (nature).

3

これは贈答用の高級な果物です。

This is high-quality fruit for gift-giving.

贈答 (gift-giving) + 用 (use) + の (particle) + 高級な (high-class) + 果物 (fruit).

4

実用性を重視したデザインです。

It is a design that emphasizes practicality (practical use).

実用性 (practicality) = 実 (actual) + 用 (use) + 性 (nature).

5

これは業務用ではなく、産業用です。

This is not for professional use, but for industrial use.

産業 (industry) + 用 (use).

6

特定の用途に限定されたツールです。

This is a tool limited to a specific use/purpose.

用途 (use/purpose) = 用 (use) + 途 (way).

7

この薬は治験用として配布された。

This medicine was distributed for clinical trial use.

治験 (clinical trial) + 用 (use) + として (as).

8

軍事用ドローンの開発が進んでいる。

The development of military-use drones is progressing.

軍事 (military affairs) + 用 (use).

1

この文書は内部閲覧用に限定されている。

This document is limited to internal viewing use.

内部 (internal) + 閲覧 (viewing) + 用 (use).

2

資金を他目的へ流用することは禁じられている。

Misappropriating (diverting use of) funds for other purposes is prohibited.

流用 (misappropriation/diversion) = 流 (flow) + 用 (use).

3

この装置は多目的な用途に対応している。

This device corresponds to multi-purpose uses.

用途 (use/purpose).

4

彼は公私混同せず、公用車を私用で使わない。

He doesn't mix public and private matters and doesn't use the official car for private use.

公用 (public use) vs 私用 (private use).

5

この素材は航空宇宙用に開発された。

This material was developed for aerospace use.

航空宇宙 (aerospace) + 用 (use).

6

その法律は徴用工問題に関連している。

That law is related to the issue of requisitioned (drafted) workers.

徴用 (requisition/drafting) = 徴 (collect) + 用 (use).

7

有用な人材を確保することが急務だ。

Securing useful (valuable) human resources is an urgent task.

有用 (useful) = 有 (have) + 用 (use).

8

この施設は地域の共用に供されている。

This facility is provided for communal use by the region.

共用 (communal use) = 共 (together) + 用 (use).

Colocações comuns

自分用
業務用
家庭用
子供用
非常用
携帯用
来客用
左利き用
女性用
提出用

Frases Comuns

自分用のご褒美

— A reward for oneself. Used when buying something nice for yourself.

今日は自分用のご褒美にケーキを買った。

業務用スーパー

— A supermarket that sells bulk items originally for businesses.

業務用スーパーで安く買い物をする。

非常用持ち出し袋

— An emergency grab-bag or survival kit.

非常用持ち出し袋を玄関に置く。

家庭用電化製品

— Home appliances (often shortened to 家電).

最新の家庭用電化製品を見る。

子供用自転車

— A bicycle designed for children.

子供用自転車に補助輪をつける。

左利き用グッズ

— Goods designed for left-handed people.

左利き用グッズの専門店に行く。

来客用スリッパ

— Slippers reserved for guests.

来客用スリッパを並べる。

提出用コピー

— A copy of a document intended for submission.

提出用コピーを一部用意する。

自分用のメモ

— A memo for one's own use/reference.

忘れないように自分用のメモを取る。

観賞用植物

— Ornamental plants kept for viewing.

観賞用植物を部屋に飾る。

Frequentemente confundido com

~用 vs ~のために

~用 is for functional categories; ~のために is for personal benefit or reasons.

~用 vs ~向け

~用 is for intended use/design; ~向け is for target audience/marketing.

~用 vs ~向き

~用 is about intention; ~向き is about suitability or being 'good for' something.

Expressões idiomáticas

"無用の長物"

— A useless white elephant; something that is useless and only gets in the way.

あの古い機械は今や無用の長物だ。

Formal/Literary
"用を足す"

— To do one's business (often a euphemism for going to the bathroom or finishing an errand).

ちょっと用を足してきます。

Neutral
"無用の用"

— The usefulness of the useless (a Taoist concept).

芸術は無用の用と言える。

Philosophical
"不用心"

— Carelessness or lack of vigilance (literally 'not using heart').

鍵をかけないのは不用心だ。

Neutral
"用済み"

— Finished with; no longer needed.

この資料はもう用済みです。

Neutral
"お安い御用"

— An easy task; 'No problem' or 'My pleasure.'

そんなこと、お安い御用ですよ。

Informal
"多用する"

— To use frequently.

彼はカタカナ語を多用する。

Neutral
"悪用する"

— To abuse or misuse (use for bad purposes).

個人情報を悪用してはいけない。

Neutral
"借用する"

— To borrow (formal).

図書館の資料を借用する。

Formal
"引用する"

— To quote or cite.

論文から文章を引用する。

Academic

Fácil de confundir

~用 vs 用事 (yōji)

Both use the character 用.

用事 is a noun meaning 'errands' or 'business.' ~用 is a suffix meaning 'for use by.'

用事がある (I have errands) vs 自分用 (for myself).

~用 vs 用意 (yōi)

Both use the character 用.

用意 means 'preparation.' ~用 is a suffix for purpose.

用意する (to prepare) vs 非常用 (for emergency).

~用 vs 使用 (shiyō)

Both relate to 'use.'

使用 is a verb/noun meaning 'the act of using.' ~用 is a suffix describing 'what it is for.'

使用中 (in use) vs 家庭用 (for home use).

~用 vs 専用 (sen'yō)

Both mean 'for use.'

専用 implies *exclusive* use (only for). ~用 is more general.

自分用 (for me) vs 自分専用 (only for me).

~用 vs 引用 (in'yō)

Both use the character 用.

引用 means 'citation' or 'quotation.'

文献を引用する (cite a document).

Padrões de frases

A1

これは [Noun] 用 です。

これは自分用です。

A1

[Noun] 用 の [Noun]

子供用の椅子

A2

[Noun] 用 に [Verb]

自分用に買いました。

A2

[Noun] 用 はありますか?

左利き用はありますか?

B1

[Noun] 用 ではなく、[Noun] 用 です。

家庭用ではなく、業務用です。

B1

[Noun] 用 として [Verb]

提出用として準備する。

B2

[Noun] 用 に開発された [Noun]

研究用に開発されたソフト。

C1

[Noun] 用 に供する

公用に供する土地。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

使用 (shiyō - use)
利用 (riyō - utilization)
用途 (yōto - application)
用事 (yōji - errand)
用意 (yōi - preparation)

Verbos

用いる (mochiiru - to use/employ)

Adjetivos

有用な (yūyōna - useful)
実用的な (jitsuyōtekina - practical)
不用な (fuyōna - unnecessary)

Relacionado

専用 (sen'yō - exclusive use)
兼用 (kenyō - dual use)
代用 (daiyō - substitution)
共用 (kyōyō - communal use)
借用 (shakuyō - borrowing)

Como usar

frequency

Extremely high in written labels and functional speech.

Erros comuns
  • Using ~用 for personal favors. ~のために

    'For you' as a gift is 'Anata no tame ni,' not 'Anata-yo.' ~用 sounds like a category label.

  • Omitting 'no' when modifying a noun. 子供用の椅子

    In standard grammar, you need 'no' to connect ~用 to the noun it describes.

  • Using ~用 with a plain verb. 走るための靴 (or ランニング用の靴)

    ~用 attaches to nouns. You cannot say 'hashiru-yo.' Use a noun like 'running.'

  • Confusing ~用 with ~向け. 留学生向けの本

    A book is targeted at students (muke), not functionally used by them as a tool (yo).

  • Using ~用 for abstract concepts like 'for peace.' 平和のために

    ~用 is for physical or functional utility, not abstract goals or reasons.

Dicas

Shopping Labels

When shopping in Japan, look for ~用 to find the right category. '自分用' is for you, '贈答用' is for gifts.

The 'No' Rule

Always remember: [Noun]用 + の + [Noun]. Without the 'no,' it's just a label; with 'no,' it's a description.

Guest Etiquette

Items labeled '来客用' (raikyaku-yō) are for guests. Don't use them yourself if you want to follow Japanese etiquette.

Pro vs Home

Learn the difference between '業務用' (pro) and '家庭用' (home). Pro items are often better value but come in huge sizes.

Emergency Signs

'非常用' (hijō-yō) is critical for safety. Look for it on exits and emergency buttons in trains and buildings.

Digital Devices

Websites often have 'PC用' and 'スマホ用' versions. Use these to find the right view for your device.

Writing 用

The character 用 has 5 strokes. Practice it often as you will see it everywhere in Japan.

Purpose vs Benefit

If it's a 'job' for the object, use ~用. If it's a 'favor' for a person, use ~のために.

Medical Labels

'外用' (external) and '内用' (internal) are vital for taking medicine correctly. Always check these labels.

Gift Giving

When buying a gift, you can ask for 'プレゼント用' wrapping. It's a standard request in department stores.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of the character 用 as a 'utility box' with a handle. It's a box of tools you use for a specific 'purpose.'

Associação visual

Imagine a 'For Kids' label on a toy box. The label is the suffix ~用.

Word Web

自分用 (For me) 子供用 (For kids) 業務用 (For pro) 家庭用 (For home) 非常用 (For emergency) 携帯用 (Portable) 左利き用 (Left-handed) 保存用 (For saving)

Desafio

Go through your house and label five items using [Noun] + 用. For example, label your toothbrush '自分用' and your guest towels '来客用.'

Origem da palavra

The character 用 (yō) originated from a pictograph of a fence or a bronze vessel, later evolving to represent 'utility' or 'service.'

Significado original: To use, to employ, or a task to be performed.

Sino-Japanese (Kanji).

Contexto cultural

Be careful not to use ~用 for people in a way that sounds like you are categorizing them as objects (e.g., avoid 'Tanaka-san-yo' unless labeling a specific item for him).

English speakers often use 'for' for everything. Learning ~用 helps them distinguish between functional purpose and personal benefit.

'Gyomu Super' (業務用スーパー) is a famous discount chain in Japan. 'Josei Sen'yo Sharyo' (女性専用車両) is a well-known cultural feature of Japanese trains.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Shopping

  • これは自分用です。
  • プレゼント用の包装をお願いします。
  • 子供用はありますか?
  • 業務用サイズ。

Public Signs

  • 車椅子用スロープ。
  • 関係者用入り口。
  • 非常用ボタン。
  • 身障者用トイレ。

Office/Work

  • 提出用のレポート。
  • 社内用の資料。
  • 会議用の弁当。
  • 保存用のファイル。

Home Life

  • 来客用の布団。
  • トイレ用の洗剤。
  • 自分用のマグカップ。
  • 夏用の布団。

Medicine/Safety

  • 外用薬。
  • 飲用不可。
  • 非常用の水。
  • 医療用の手袋。

Iniciadores de conversa

"「これは自分用ですか、それともプレゼント用ですか?」 (Is this for yourself or for a gift?)"

"「子供用のメニューはありますか?」 (Do you have a children's menu?)"

"「この駐車場は軽自動車用ですよ。」 (This parking lot is for light cars, you know.)"

"「夏用のタイヤにいつ交換しますか?」 (When will you change to summer tires?)"

"「業務用スーパーでおすすめの商品はありますか?」 (Do you have any recommended products at the business supermarket?)"

Temas para diário

今日、自分用に買ったものを書いてください。 (Write about something you bought for yourself today.)

あなたの家にある「~用」のものを探してリストにしてください。 (Find things in your house that are 'for [purpose]' and make a list.)

業務用スーパーに行ったことがありますか?感想を書いてください。 (Have you been to a business supermarket? Write your thoughts.)

あなたが「自分専用」にしたいものは何ですか? (What is something you want to have for your exclusive use?)

将来、どのような「~用」のロボットが欲しいですか? (What kind of 'purpose-built' robot do you want in the future?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Generally, no. Using ~用 for a person sounds like you are treating them as a category of user. It is better to say 'Tanaka-san no tame ni' (for Tanaka-san's sake) or just 'Tanaka-san no' (Tanaka-san's). However, if you are labeling a box in a shared fridge, '田中さん用' is acceptable as a functional label.

'Kodomo-yo' means it is functionally designed for children (like a small chair). 'Kodomo-muke' means it is targeted at children (like a movie or a book).

Yes, it is neutral and very common. It's a standard way to say 'for my own use' when shopping or organizing things.

If you are using it to modify another noun (e.g., 'kodomo-yo no isu'), yes. If it's a standalone label on a sign or at the end of a sentence ('Kore wa kodomo-yo desu'), no.

Not directly. You must use the noun form or the verb stem in specific compounds (like 'inyō' for drinking). For general 'for doing X,' use '~ための.'

It means 'professional use.' These items are usually sold in large quantities and are intended for restaurants, but regular customers can buy them too.

You use '外用' (gaiyō). You will often see '外用薬' (gaiyōyaku) on ointments.

It means 'for emergency use.' You will see this on emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and survival kits.

'Dansei-yo' is 'for men' (adults/formal). 'Otoko-no-ko-yo' is 'for boys' (children).

Yes, for seasons like 'natsu-yo' (for summer) or 'fuyu-yo' (for winter), referring to clothes or equipment used in those times.

Teste-se 180 perguntas

writing

Translate: This is a chair for children.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: I bought this for myself.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: Do you have a kids' menu?

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This is a home-use printer.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: I need guest slippers.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This is professional-use detergent.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: Please prepare an emergency bag.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This water is not for drinking.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This is a medical-grade mask.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This room is for filming.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This is an ornamental plant.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: The land is for public use.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: We value practicality.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This is for gift-giving.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: It is a versatile tool.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: He uses the car for private use.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: Misappropriation of funds is a crime.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: This is for communal use.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: Employment is increasing.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: No need to worry. (Using 'muyō')

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is for children' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I bought this for myself' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask 'Is there a kids' menu?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is a home-use printer' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I need guest slippers' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is professional-use detergent' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Please prepare an emergency bag' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This water is not for drinking' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is a medical-grade mask' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This room is for filming' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is an ornamental plant' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'The land is for public use' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'We value practicality' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is for gift-giving' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'It is a versatile tool' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'He uses the car for private use' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Misappropriation of funds is a crime' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'This is for communal use' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Employment is increasing' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'No need to worry' (using muyō) in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: これは自分用です。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 子供用の椅子。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 家庭用の洗濯機。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 来客用のスリッパ。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 業務用の洗剤。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 非常用の出口。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 携帯用の扇風機。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 提出用の書類。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 医療用のマスク。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 観賞用の植物。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 実用性を重視する。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 汎用性が高い。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 公私混同しない。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 資金の流用。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Transcribe: 心配無用。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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