Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Use" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "use", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
利用
りよう (riyō)
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 利用 and 参考にする.
In Japanese, 利用 (りよう (riyō)) is typically associated with "use, utilize, make use of" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents To make use of something, often a service, facility, or resource, for one's benefit or purpose. Can be used with する..
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 "利用"
図書館のサービスをよく利用します。
I often use the library's services.
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: "図書館のサービスをよく ＿＿＿ します。" (Meaning: "I often use the library's services.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "利用" fits here because it means "use, utilize, make use of" in the context of: "I often use the library's services.". "参考にする" represents "to use as reference, to refer to".