用来

• Pinyin: yòng lái
• Hanzi breakdown: 用 = to use; 来 = to come, here indicating purpose

Meaning

Used for; used to. Introduces the purpose or function of something.

A common structure to explain what something is designed or intended for. Typically precedes a verb phrase describing the purpose. Similar to 用于 but more colloquial. The subject is usually a tool, device, or resource.

Examples

1. 这个房间是用来开会的。 This room is used for meetings.
2. 这笔钱可以用来买书或者交学费。 This money can be used to buy books or pay tuition.
3. 这种材料主要用来制作高档家具。 This material is mainly used to make high-end furniture.

Usage Guide

Context: explanation, purpose, everyday

Tone: explanatory

Do Say

• 这是用来做什么的？(What is this used for?)
• 时间应该用来学习。(Time should be used for studying.)

Don't Say

• 用来我学习 (Incorrect structure — say 用来学习, where the verb follows directly)

Origin & History

Compound of 用 (to use) and 来 (to come/used for). The 来 here indicates purpose.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal