Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Use" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "use", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
使用する
しようする (shiyōsuru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
参考にする
さんこうにする (sankou ni suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "use" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 使用する and 参考にする.
In Japanese, 使用する (しようする (shiyōsuru)) is typically associated with "to use" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents More formal than 使う.
On the other hand, 参考にする (さんこうにする (sankou ni suru)) maps to "to use as reference, to refer to" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents To use information or examples from something to help make a decision or create something new. Often implies not copying directly but drawing inspiration.. A literal translation of "use" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "使用する"
この部屋では火気の使用は禁止されています。
The use of fire is prohibited in this room.
Bilingual Context for "参考にする"
彼の意見を参考にして、計画を立てました。
I made a plan by referring to his opinion.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この部屋では火気の使用は禁止されています。" (Meaning: "The use of fire is prohibited in this room.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "使用する" fits here because it means "to use" in the context of: "The use of fire is prohibited in this room.". "参考にする" represents "to use as reference, to refer to".