Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Use" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "use", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
参考にする
さんこうにする (sankou ni suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
使用
しよう (shiyou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "use" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 参考にする and 使用.
In Japanese, 参考にする (さんこうにする (sankou ni suru)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 使用 (しよう (shiyou)) maps to "use, usage" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A formal noun meaning "use" or "usage." Can be used as a する-verb. A literal translation of "use" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "使用"
この機械の_______方法は簡単です。
The method of using this machine is simple.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の意見を参考にして、計画を立てました。" (Meaning: "I made a plan by referring to his opinion.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "参考にする" fits here because it means "to use as reference, to refer to" in the context of: "I made a plan by referring to his opinion.". "使用" represents "use, usage".