What is the Kanji for "Use"?
If you are wondering what is the Japanese Kanji for "Use", you've come to the right place!
The Japanese Kanji for "Use" is "用".
This kanji has 2 readings:
Its kunyomi reading is "Mochi".
Its onyomi reading is "You".
kunyomi readings are based on the pronunciation of native Japanese words, and onyomi readings are based on the Chinese pronunciation of the character.
If you visually breakdown this kanji, you can see is made up of 2 parts:
The kanji "月" means "Moon" and "Month" and can be read as "Tsuki", "Getsu" and "Gatsu". And The radical "丨" means "Stick" .
Now, let's make sure you understand this kanji the other way around too.
What does the kanji "用" mean in japanese?
"用" means "Use" .
Japanese School Students learn this kanji in Second Grade, while foreigners may learn this kanji in preparation for the JLPT N4 exam.
Here are some words that use this kanji:
用いる: "Use". The Japanese verb '用いる (もちいる)' means 'to use' or 'to employ'. It is a formal or literary term often used in written language or formal speech. It implies the act of utilizing something for a specific purpose, often with a sense of careful selection or deliberate application. For example: The professor used a new method in his research「教授は新しい方法を用いた」(きょうじゅはあたらしいほうほうをもちいた). This tool is used for precise measurements「この道具は精密な測定に用いられる」(このどうぐはせいみつなそくていにもちいられる). Note that '用いる' is more formal than the common verb '使う (つかう)', which also means 'to use'.
利用: "Use". The Japanese verbal noun '利用 (りよう)' means 'use' or 'utilization'. It refers to the act of using something, often in a practical or beneficial way. This word is commonly used in contexts involving services, resources, or facilities. For example: I use the library「図書館を利用する」(としょかんをりようする). He utilizes public transportation「彼は公共交通を利用する」(かれはこうきょうこうつうをりようする). The word can also imply making the most of something, such as opportunities or tools. Note that '利用' is often paired with verbs like 'する' to form phrases like '利用する (りようする)' (to use).
用意: "Preparation". The Japanese verbal noun '用意 (ようい)' means 'preparation'. It refers to the act of preparing or getting something ready for a specific purpose or event. This word is commonly used in contexts where planning or readiness is required, such as preparing for a trip, a meal, or an event. For example: I finished my preparation for the trip「旅行の用意ができた」(りょこうのよういができた). Please prepare the documents「書類を用意してください」(しょるいをよういしてください). It can also imply a sense of readiness or having something at hand, as in '用意ができている (よういができている)' meaning 'to be prepared'.
費用: "Expense" or "Cost". The Japanese noun '費用 (ひよう)' refers to the amount of money required to pay for something, such as a service, product, or activity. It is commonly used in contexts involving financial planning, budgeting, or discussing the price of something. For example: The cost of living is high「生活の費用は高い」(せいかつのひようはたかい). We need to calculate the travel expenses「旅行の費用を計算する必要がある」(りょこうのひようをけいさんするひつようがある). Note that '費用' is often used in formal or business settings, and it can refer to both one-time and recurring expenses.
採用: "Hiring" or "Adoption". The Japanese verbal noun '採用 (さいよう)' has two distinct meanings. The first is 'hiring', which refers to the act of employing someone for a job. For example: The company is hiring new employees「会社は新しい従業員を採用している」(かいしゃはあたらしいじゅうぎょういんをさいようしている). The second meaning is 'adoption', which refers to the act of taking up or implementing something, such as a method, policy, or idea. For example: The school adopted a new teaching method「学校は新しい教育方法を採用した」(がっこうはあたらしいきょういくほうほうをさいようした). The context in which '採用' is used will determine whether it refers to hiring or adoption.
使用: "Use". The Japanese verbal noun '使用 (しよう)' means 'use'. It refers to the act of utilizing something for a specific purpose. This word is commonly used in formal or technical contexts, such as instructions, manuals, or official documents. For example: Please use this tool「この道具を使用してください」(このどうぐをしようしてください). The use of this machine is prohibited「この機械の使用は禁止されています」(このきかいのしようはきんしされています). Note that '使用' is often paired with verbs like 'する' to form phrases like '使用する (しようする)', which means 'to use'.
作用: "Effect" or "Action". The Japanese verbal noun '作用 (さよう)' refers to the 'effect' or 'action' of something, often in a scientific, medical, or abstract context. It describes the influence or operation of one thing on another, such as the effect of a drug or the action of a force. For example: the effect of the medicine is strong「薬の作用は強い」(くすりのさようはつよい). The action of gravity is constant「重力の作用は一定だ」(じゅうりょくのさようはいちだい). This word is commonly used in technical or formal contexts to describe cause-and-effect relationships.
使用人: "Employee". The Japanese noun '使用人 (しようにん)' refers to an 'employee' or 'servant'. It is a formal term used to describe someone who is employed by another person or organization, typically in a service or domestic role. The word carries a slightly old-fashioned or formal tone and is often used in historical or legal contexts. For example: The employee works diligently「使用人は勤勉に働く」(しようにんはきんべんにはたらく). The servant prepared the meal「使用人が食事を用意した」(しようにんがしょくじをよういした). Note that in modern contexts, the term '従業員 (じゅうぎょういん)' is more commonly used for 'employee'.
悪用: "Misuse". The Japanese noun '悪用 (あくよう)' means 'misuse'. It refers to the act of using something in a wrong or harmful way, often for personal gain or malicious intent. This word is commonly used in contexts involving the improper use of resources, information, or authority. For example: the misuse of power「権力の悪用」(けんりょくのあくよう). Misusing personal information is a crime「個人情報の悪用は犯罪です」(こじんじょうほうのあくようははんざいです). The term carries a negative connotation and is often associated with unethical behavior.
活用: "Conjugation". The Japanese verbal noun '活用 (かつよう)' refers to the grammatical concept of 'conjugation'. It is used to describe the inflection or modification of verbs and adjectives to express different grammatical functions such as tense, mood, voice, and politeness level. For example: studying verb conjugation is important「動詞の活用を勉強することは大切です」(どうしの かつようをべんきょうすることはたいせつです). This adjective has a complex conjugation「この形容詞は活用が複雑です」(このけいようしはかつようがふくざつです). '活用' can also be used in a broader sense to mean 'utilization' or 'effective use', but in the context of grammar, it specifically refers to conjugation.
引用: "Quote". The Japanese verbal noun '引用 (いんよう)' means 'quote' or 'citation'. It refers to the act of quoting or citing a text, speech, or other source. This term is commonly used in academic, professional, and everyday contexts when referencing someone else's words or ideas. For example: I quoted a famous author「有名な作家を引用した」(ゆうめいなさっかをいんようした). Please cite the source properly「出典を適切に引用してください」(しゅってきをてきせつにいんようしてください). The nuance of '引用' emphasizes the act of borrowing or referencing, often to support an argument or provide evidence.
急用: "Urgent matter". The Japanese noun '急用 (きゅうよう)' refers to an 'urgent matter' or 'urgent business'. It is commonly used to describe a situation or task that requires immediate attention or action. This word is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as when someone needs to excuse themselves due to an urgent matter. For example: I have an urgent matter to attend to「急用があります」(きゅうようがあります). He left work early because of an urgent matter「彼 は急用で早退しました」(かれはきゅうようでそうたいしました). The term emphasizes the importance and immediacy of the matter at hand.
運用: "Operation". The Japanese verbal noun '運用 (うんよう)' refers to the act of operating, managing, or utilizing something, often in a systematic or strategic way. It is commonly used in contexts related to business, finance, technology, or systems management. For example: The operation of the new system is going smoothly「新しいシステムの運用は順調です」(あたらしいシステムのうんようはじゅんちょうです). Proper management of funds is essential「資金の適切な運用が重要です」(しきんのてきせつなうんようがじゅうようです). This term emphasizes the practical application and control of resources or systems.
信用: "Trust" or "Credit". The Japanese verbal noun '信用 (しんよう)' primarily means 'trust' or 'credit'. It refers to the belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something. It is often used in contexts involving relationships, business, or financial transactions. For example: I trust him「彼を信用しています」(かれをしんようしています). The company has good credit「その会社は信用が良い」(そのかいしゃはしんようがよい). Note that '信用' can also imply credibility or reputation, as in '信用を得る (しんようをえる)' (to gain trust/credibility).
応用: "Application". The Japanese verbal noun '応用 (おうよう)' means 'application'. It refers to the act of applying knowledge, principles, or techniques to practical situations. This word is often used in academic, technical, or professional contexts to describe how theoretical concepts are put into practice. For example: the application of new technology「新しい技術の応用」(あたらしいぎじゅつのおうよう). This theory has many practical applications「この理論には多くの応用がある」(このりろんにはおおくのおうようがある). It is also commonly used in phrases like '応用科学 (おうようかがく)' (applied science) or '応用力 (おうようりょく)' (ability to apply knowledge).
実用的: "Practical". The Japanese adjective '実用的 (じつようてき)' means 'practical'. It is used to describe something that is useful, functional, or suitable for everyday use. This word often emphasizes the utility or effectiveness of an object, idea, or method. For example: This tool is very practical「この道具はとても実用的です」(このどうぐはとてもじつようてきです). Her approach to problem-solving is practical「彼女の問題解決の方法は実用的です」(かのじょのもんだいかいけつのほうほうはじつようてきです). The word can also be used to describe designs, plans, or systems that are efficient and not overly complicated.
器用: "Skillful". The Japanese adjectival noun ' 器用 (きよう)' means 'skillful' or 'dexterous'. It is used to describe someone who is adept at handling tasks, especially those requiring manual dexterity or cleverness. This word can also imply versatility and the ability to adapt to various situations. For example: He is skillful with his hands「彼は手先が器用だ」(かれはてさきがきようだ). She is skillful at solving problems「彼女は問題を解決するのが器用だ」(かのじょはもんだいをかいけつするのがきようだ). Note that '器用' often carries a positive connotation, highlighting someone's ability to perform tasks efficiently and with ease.
用語: "Term". The Japanese noun '用語 (ようご)' refers to a 'term' or 'word' used in a specific context, field, or discipline. It is often used to describe specialized vocabulary or jargon. For example: This term is used in medicine「この用語は医学で使われます」(このようごはいがくでつかわれます). Please explain the meaning of this term「この用語の意味を説明してください」(このようごのいみをせつめいしてください). The word can also imply the proper or formal usage of language in a particular setting.
専用: "Exclusive". The Japanese noun '専用 (せんよう)' means 'exclusive' or 'dedicated'. It refers to something that is reserved or designed for a specific purpose, person, or group. For example: This is an exclusive parking area「ここは専用の駐車場です」(ここはせんようのちゅうしゃじょうです). This is a dedicated line for customer service「これはお客様専用の電話回線です」(これはおきゃくさませんようのでんわかいせんです). The term is often used in contexts where something is restricted or specialized, such as '専用席 (せんようせき) (reserved seat)' or '専用アプリ (せんようアプリ) (dedicated app)'.
雇用: "Employment". The Japanese verbal noun '雇用 (こよう)' means 'employment'. It refers to the act of hiring or employing someone, or the state of being employed. This term is commonly used in contexts related to jobs, labor, and workforce. For example: The company is increasing employment「その会社は雇用を増やしている」(そのかいしゃはこようをふやしている). Stable employment is important「安定した雇用は重要だ」(あんていしたこようはじゅうようだ). Note that '雇用' can also be used in compound words like '雇用契約 (こようけいやく)' (employment contract) or '雇用主 (こようぬし)' (employer).
慣用句: "Idiom". The Japanese noun '慣用句 (かんようく)' refers to an 'idiom' or a set phrase that has a meaning not deducible from the individual words. These expressions are deeply rooted in the language and culture, often carrying nuances and connotations that are unique to Japanese. For example: He used an idiom to explain his point「彼は自分のポイントを説明するために慣用句を使った」(かれはじぶんのポイントをせつめいするためにかんようくをつかった). Learning idioms is essential for understanding Japanese culture「慣用句を学ぶことは日本文化を理解するために不可欠だ」(かんようくをまなぶことはにほんぶんかをりかいするためにふかけつだ). Idioms often reflect historical events, folklore, or common experiences, making them a rich area of study for language learners.
原稿用紙: "Manuscript". The Japanese noun '原稿用紙 (げんこうようし)' refers to a specific type of paper used for writing manuscripts, essays, or other formal written works. It is typically grid-lined, with each square representing one character, making it easier to count and organize text. This paper is commonly used in schools, for literary submissions, or in professional writing. For example: I wrote my essay on manuscript paper「私は原稿用紙に作文を書いた」(わたしはげんこうようしにさくぶんをかいた). Please submit your work on manuscript paper「原稿用紙に作品を提出してください」(げんこうようしにさくひんをていしゅつしてください).
通用: "Common". The Japanese noun '通用 (つうよう)' refers to something that is commonly accepted, used, or applicable. It often describes ideas, practices, or items that are widely recognized or valid in a particular context. For example: This method is commonly used「この方法は通用する」(このほうほうはつうようする). His excuse won't work here「彼の言い訳はここでは通用しない」(かれのいいわけはここではつうようしない). The term can also imply something being effective or valid in a specific situation, such as a rule or a ticket being valid for a certain period.
用: "Use". The Japanese noun '用 (よう)' primarily means 'use' or 'purpose'. It refers to the function, utility, or reason for something. It is often used in compound words or phrases to indicate the intended use or necessity of an object, task, or action. For example: This tool has a specific use「この道具には特定の用がある」(このどうぐにはとくていのようがある). I have something important to do「用がある」(ようがある). Additionally, '用' can also imply a task or errand, as in 'I have an errand to run「用事がある」(ようじがある)'. It is a versatile word commonly used in both formal and casual contexts.
無用: "Useless" or "Unnecessary". The Japanese adjectival noun '無用 (むよう)' can mean 'useless' or 'unnecessary'. It is used to describe something that has no practical value or is not needed. For example: this tool is useless「この道具は無用だ」(このどうぐはむようだ). It is unnecessary to worry「心配は無用です」(しんぱいはむようです). The word can also imply that something is not required or should be avoided, as in '無用な争い (むようなあらそい) (unnecessary conflict)'. Note that '無用' can carry a slightly formal tone and is often used in written or formal spoken contexts.
日用品: "Daily necessities". The Japanese noun '日用品 (にちようひん)' means 'daily necessities'. This word refers to everyday items that are commonly used in daily life, such as toothbrushes, soap, kitchen utensils, and other household goods. These items are essential for routine activities and are typically purchased frequently. Example: I need to buy daily necessities 「日用品を買う必要がある」 (にちようひんをかうひつようがある). This store has a wide range of daily necessities 「この店は日用品の品揃えが豊富だ」 (このみせはにちようひんのしなぞろえがほうふだ). The term is commonly used in shopping contexts and when referring to household management.
用心: "Caution". The Japanese verbal noun '用心 (ようじん)' means 'caution' or 'carefulness'. It is used to describe the act of being careful or taking precautions to avoid danger or mistakes. This word is often used in contexts where one needs to be vigilant or alert. For example: Please be cautious when crossing the street「道を渡るときは用心してください」(みちをわたるときはようじんしてください). He is always cautious about his health「彼はいつも健康に用心している」(かれはいつもけんこうにようじんしている). The word can also be used in compound phrases like '用心深い (ようじんぶかい)', meaning 'cautious' or 'prudent'.
実用: "Practical". The Japanese noun '実用 (じつよう)' refers to something being practical or having practical use. It is often used to describe objects, ideas, or methods that are functional and useful in real-life situations. For example: This tool is very practical「この道具は実用的です」(このどうぐはじつようてきです). The book focuses on practical applications「その本は実用に焦点を当てています」(そのほんはじつようにしょうてんをあてています). The term emphasizes utility and functionality over theoretical or abstract qualities.
不器用: "Clumsy". The Japanese adjectival noun '不器用 (ぶきよう)' means 'clumsy'. It describes someone who lacks skill or dexterity, often in physical tasks or social interactions. This term can also imply a lack of finesse or awkwardness in handling situations. For example: He is clumsy with his hands「彼は手先が不器用だ」(かれはてさきがぶきようだ). She is clumsy at expressing her feelings「彼女は感情を表現するのが不器用だ」(かのじょはかんじょうをひょうげんするのがぶきようだ). The word can carry a slightly endearing or sympathetic tone, depending on the context.
適用: "Application". The Japanese verbal noun '適用 (てきよう)' means 'application' in the sense of applying a rule, law, principle, or method to a specific situation or case. It is commonly used in formal, legal, or technical contexts. For example: The new law will be applied next month「新しい法律が来月適用されます」(あたらしいほうりつがらいげつてきようされます). This method is not applicable to all cases「この方法はすべてのケースに適用できません」(このほうほうはすべてのケースにてきようできません). The word often implies the act of putting something into practice or enforcing a rule.
用例: "Example". The Japanese noun '用例 (ようれい)' means 'example' or 'usage example'. It is commonly used in contexts such as language learning, dictionaries, or technical documentation to illustrate how a word or phrase is used in practice. For example: This dictionary provides many usage examples「この辞書は多くの用例を提供する」(このじしょはおおくのようれいをていきょうする). The teacher explained the grammar with clear examples「先生は明確な用例で文法を説明した」(せんせいはめいかくなようれいでぶんぽうをせつめいした). The term is often associated with practical demonstrations of language or concepts.
用途: "Use". The Japanese noun '用途 (ようと)' refers to the purpose or intended use of something. It is commonly used to describe the function or application of an object, tool, or resource. For example: This machine has various uses「この機械は用途が広い」(このきかいはようとがひろい). The use of this material is limited「この材料の用途は限られている」(このざいりょうのようとはかぎられている). The word often appears in technical or practical contexts, emphasizing the specific function or role of an item.
筆記用具: "Stationery". The Japanese noun '筆記用具 (ひっきようぐ)' refers to 'stationery' or 'writing utensils'. It is a general term used to describe tools or instruments used for writing, such as pens, pencils, erasers, and notebooks. This word is commonly used in educational or office settings. For example: I bought new stationery「新しい筆記用具を買いました」(あたらしいひっきようぐをかいました). Please bring your stationery to the meeting「会議に筆記用具を持ってきてください」(かいぎにひっきようぐをもってきてください). The term emphasizes items specifically used for writing or taking notes, distinguishing it from other types of office supplies.
To make really sure you learn this Kanji, I've prepared an interactive lesson for you. You are going to learn the readings and meanings of this kanji.
But first, you need to know a little bit about Hiragana and Katakana.
Hiragana and katakana are japanese syllabaries, this means that each character represents a syllable.
This are the characters you need to know for this lesson:
The hiragana "よ" is read as "yo". The hiragana "う" is read as "u". The hiragana "も" is read as "mo". And The hiragana "ち" is read as "chi".
![[Secondhand] Attack No.1](https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/pictures/s/15/23/NEODAI-251141.jpg)
![[Secondhand] Attack No.1](https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/pictures/s/15/28/NEODAI-251138.jpg)
