Translation and Meaning of: 使用 - shiyou

The Japanese word 使用[しよう] is an essential term for anyone learning the language, especially for those who wish to understand daily life and formal communication. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in different contexts. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for memorizing it and interesting facts about its usage in Japanese culture. If you are looking for a reliable dictionary to deepen your studies, Suki Nihongo is a great reference.

Meaning and use of 使用

使用 means "use" or "utilization" and is a verbal noun that can also function as a verb when combined with the suffix する (suru). It often appears in formal and technical contexts, such as manuals, official documents, and instructions. For example, in sentences like "この機械の使用には注意が必要です" (Caution is required when using this machine), the term conveys an idea of practical application.

Unlike more informal words like 使う (tsukau), which also means "to use," 使用 carries a more polished and objective tone. Therefore, it is common to find it in professional environments or situations that require clarity. Its usage is so widespread that even in animes and dramas with corporate or technical settings, the word appears frequently.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 使 (shi) means "to use" or "to send," while 用 (you) represents "utilization" or "purpose." Together, they form a term that reinforces the idea of practical application. The combination is not random – many Japanese words arise from the union of kanjis that, together, expand or specify a concept.

It is worth noting that 使用 is not an old or obsolete word. On the contrary, it is still widely used in modern Japanese, especially in contexts that require precision. Its kanji also appears in other useful terms, such as 使用料 (usage fee) and 使用禁止 (prohibited use), showing its versatility.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 使用 is to associate it with everyday situations involving instructions or rules. For example, when reading a notice on an electronic product or in a public space, you are likely to encounter this word. Writing down sentences like "この設備の使用は登録者に限ります" (The use of this equipment is restricted to registered users) can help with learning.

Another strategy is to practice reading and writing kanjis separately before combining them. Since 使 and 用 are common characters, recognizing them individually makes it easier to understand the complete term. Furthermore, paying attention to the context in which 使用 appears – almost always in formal situations – helps avoid confusion with more casual words.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 利用 (Riyou) - Use, utilization.
• 使役 (Shiyaku) - Use of a means or resource, action of making someone use something.
• 使う (Tsukau) - Use, employ.
• 用いる (Moichiiru) - Use, employ (generally in a more formal context).
• 運用 (Unyou) - Management and operation, effective use of resources.
• 使用する (Shiyou suru) - Use, employ (more formal than 使う).
• 使い (Tsukai) - Usage, the way of using something.
• 使い方 (Tsukaikata) - How to use, usage instructions.
• 使い道 (Tsukaimichi) - Modo de uso, finalidade de uso.
• 使い勝手 (Tsukaigatte) - Ease of use, convenience when using something.
• 使い分け (Tsukaiwake) - Distinguish and use in different ways, adapting the use according to the situation.
• 使い回す (Tsukaimawasu) - Reuse, use something multiple times.
• 使い切る (Tsukaikiru) - Use completely, exhaust the use of something.
• 使い捨て (Tsukaisute) - Disposable, intended for single use.
• 使い古す (Tsukaikorosu) - Use until it becomes old or worn out.
• 使い込む (Tsukaikomu) - Use intensively, use a lot (usually refers to something personal).
• 使い始める (Tsukaihajimeru) - Start using.
• 使い続ける (Tsukaitsuzukeru) - Continue to use.
• 使い方を覚える (Tsukaikata o oboeru) - Memorize how to use it.
• 使い方がわかる (Tsukaikata ga wakaru) - Understand how to use.
• 使い方が上手 (Tsukaikata ga jouzu) - Be skilled in the way of using.
• 使い方が下手 (Tsukaikata ga heta) - To be awkward in the way of using.
• 使い方が違う (Tsukaikata ga chigau) - The way to use it is different; misinterpretation of the usage.
• 使い方が同じ (Tsukaikata ga onaji) - The same way to use.
• 使い方が似ている (Tsukaikata ga niteiru) - Similar usage forms.
• 使い方が異なる (Tsukaikata ga kotonaru) - The way to use it is different, variations in usage.
• 使い方が複雑 (Tsukaikata ga fukuzatsu) - Complex, complicated mode of use.

使用

Romaji: shiyou
Kana: しよう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: use; application; employment; utilization

Meaning in English: use;application;employment;utilization

Definition: use something for a specific purpose.

Example Sentences - (使用) shiyou

See below some example sentences:

この薬の用法をよく読んでから使用してください。

Kono kusuri no yōhō o yoku yonde kara shiyō shite kudasai

Please read the instructions for using this medicine carefully before using it.

Read the use of this medicine carefully before using it.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 薬 - noun meaning "remedy" or "medicine"
• の - possessive particle indicating that the preceding noun is the owner or origin of something
• 用法 - noun meaning "how to use" or "instructions for use"
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• よく - adverb meaning "well" or "properly"
• 読んで - verb form of "ler" in the imperative
• から - particle indicating the reason or motive for something
• 使用して - verb form of "use" in the imperative
• ください - verb meaning "please" or "do"

使用することは必要です。

Shiyō suru koto wa hitsuyō desu

It is necessary to use.

It is necessary to use it.

• 使用する - It means "to use" in Japanese.
• こと - means "thing" or "subject" in Japanese
• は - It is a grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 必要 - means "necessary" in Japanese
• です - is a polite way of saying "to be" or "to be" in Japanese
• . - indicates the end of the sentence

使用人は会社にとって重要な存在です。

Shiyōnin wa kaisha ni totte jūyō na sonzai desu

Employees are an important presence for the company.

The servant is important to the company.

• 使用人 - person who uses or uses something
• 会社 - company
• にとって - for, in relation to
• 重要 - important
• な - Particle indicating adjective
• 存在 - Existence, presence
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

核兵器は絶対に使用してはいけない。

Kaku heiki wa zettai ni shiyou shite wa ikenai

Never use nuclear weapons.

• 核兵器 - nuclear weapon
• は - Topic particle
• 絶対に - absolutely
• 使用して - using
• はいけない - not allowed