使用

• Reading: しよう
• Romaji: shiyou
• Kanji breakdown: 使 (shi) — to use, employ; 用 (you) — use, service, business
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.joː/

Meaning

Use; application; employment. The act of using something for a purpose.

A する verb (使用する — to use). More formal than 使う (to use). Common in instructions, manuals, rules, and official documents. 使用中 means 'in use,' 使用禁止 means 'use prohibited,' 使用者 means 'user.' Frequently seen on signs and in written regulations.

Examples

1. この部屋は会議で使用されている。 This room is being used for a meeting.
2. 携帯電話の使用は禁止されています。 The use of cell phones is prohibited.
3. 新しいソフトウェアの使用方法を説明します。 I'll explain how to use the new software.

Usage Guide

Context: instructions, rules, technology

Tone: official

Origin & History

Compound of 使 (shi, to use/employ) and 用 (you, use/service). Both kanji relate to utilization, creating a formal compound for the act of using.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal