使

JLPT N4

Use, employ

Readings

On’yomi: シ (shi)

Kun’yomi: つか(う) (tsuka(u))

• つか.う (tsukau) – to use, to employ, to make use of

Structure

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Detailed Explanation

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Mnemonic

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Etymology

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Visual Tip

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Vocabulary

使う

つかう

to use

使用

しよう

usage

使者

ししゃ

messenger

大使

たいし

ambassador

使い方

つかいかた

way of using

Example Sentences

スマホを使います。

すまほをつかいます。

I use a smartphone.

使い方を教えてください。

つかいかたをおしえてください。

Please tell me how to use it.

Cultural Note

🏃‍♂️ The kanji 使 reflects action and utility in Japanese culture.
• In historical Japan, sending messengers (使者) or employing people to carry out duties was crucial in governance.
• Modern usage emphasizes practical use of tools, technology, or people, connecting historical duty with contemporary efficiency.
• Words like 使用 (use), 使命 (mission), and 使役 (causative action) illustrate both practical and formal applications in society.