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Quintuple VS

Synonym Boundary: "利用する", "利用", "用途", "参考にする", "使用"

All represent the core concept "use", but require precise selection.

Japanese Option A

利用する

りようする (riyō suru)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B

利用

りよう (riyō)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option C

用途

ようと (yōto)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option D

参考にする

さんこうにする (sankou ni suru)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option E

使用

しよう (shiyou)
N3 / CEFR

Quintuple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences

When expressing "use" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "利用する", "利用", "用途", "参考にする", "使用" based on context.
  • 利用する (りようする (riyō suru) - Level: N4): Maps to "to use, to make use of" and is used when Often implies making good use of something, or taking advantage of a service or facility. More formal than 使う.
  • 利用 (りよう (riyō) - Level: N4): Maps to "use, utilize, make use of" and is used when To make use of something, often a service, facility, or resource, for one's benefit or purpose. Can be used with する..
  • 用途 (ようと (yōto) - Level: N3): Maps to "use, purpose, application" and is used when Refers to the specific purpose or use of an object, tool, or space. Often used in technical or formal contexts..
  • 参考にする (さんこうにする (sankou ni suru) - Level: N3): Maps to "to use as reference, to refer to" and is used when To use information or examples from something to help make a decision or create something new. Often implies not copying directly but drawing inspiration..
  • 使用 (しよう (shiyou) - Level: N3): Maps to "use, usage" and is used when A formal noun meaning "use" or "usage." Can be used as a する-verb.
Mixing these up can easily lead to unnatural translations. Refer to the bilingual context cards below to master the boundaries!
Context for "利用する"
この公園は無料で利用できます。
This park can be used for free.
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.
Context for "用途"
この道具は様々な用途に使えます。
This tool can be used for various purposes.
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.
Context for "使用"
この機械の_______方法は簡単です。
The method of using this machine is simple.

Synonym Mastery Challenge

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "この公園は無料で利用できます。" (Meaning: "This park can be used for free.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "利用する" is correct here because it represents "to use, to make use of" in the context: "This park can be used for free.".

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