How to Say “To Use” in Japanese with Tsukau

Have you ever found yourself struggling to express the simple act of “using” something in Japanese? Whether you’re trying to explain how you use technology at work or describe everyday activities, mastering the verb “tsukau” (使う) is essential for effective communication in Japanese. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about how to say “to use” in Japanese, complete with practical examples and helpful tips for language learners.

The Fundamentals of “Tsukau” (使う) in Japanese

The Japanese verb “tsukau” (使う) is one of the most common and versatile verbs you’ll encounter. It directly translates to “to use” or “to utilize” in English and appears in countless everyday situations. As a godan (五段) or “five-step” verb, “tsukau” follows predictable conjugation patterns that we’ll explore later in this article.

The basic form of the verb is written as 使う in kanji or つかう in hiragana. When romanized, it’s written as “tsukau.” This verb serves as the foundation for expressing how you use objects, tools, technology, services, and even more abstract concepts like time or money.

Common Ways to Use “Tsukau” in Daily Conversation

Basic Usage Pattern

The standard pattern for using “tsukau” follows this structure:

[Object] を 使う (tsukau) [Object] o tsukau

Let’s look at some practical examples:

• パソコンを使う (pasokon o tsukau) – to use a computer
• 電車を使う (densha o tsukau) – to use a train
• ウェブカメラを使う (webukamera o tsukau) – to use a webcam

Real-Life Examples with Full Sentences

1. Work Context:
   • わたしは、仕事でパソコンを使う。
   • Watashi wa, shigoto de pasokon o tsukau.
   • I use a computer for work.
2. Professional Skills:
   • 大工は家を建てるとき、たくさんの道具を使う。
   • Daiku wa ie o tateru toki, takusan no dōgu o tsukau.
   • A carpenter uses a lot of tools when building a house.
3. Technology Usage:
   • プログラマーがコンピュータを使っている。
   • Puroguramā ga konpyūta o tsukatte iru.
   • The programmer is using the computer.

Essential Conjugations for “Tsukau” in Japanese

Understanding how to conjugate “tsukau” across different tenses and forms is crucial for expressing yourself accurately. Here are the most important conjugations:

Present/Future Tense (Dictionary Form)

• 使う (tsukau) – to use, will use

Present Continuous Form

• 使っている (tsukatte iru) – am/is/are using
  • Example: その人は、Emailを送るのにコンピューターを使っている。
  • Sono hito wa, Email o okuru noni konpyūtā o tsukatte iru.
  • The person is using a computer to write e-mail.

Past Tense

• 使った (tsukatta) – used
  • Example: プログラマーがコンピュータを使った。
  • Puroguramā ga konpyūta o tsukatta.
  • The programmer used the computer.

Negative Forms

• 使わない (tsukawanai) – do not use
• 使っていない (tsukatte inai) – am/is/are not using
• 使わなかった (tsukawanakatta) – did not use

Polite Forms

• 使います (tsukaimasu) – use (polite present/future)
• 使っています (tsukatte imasu) – am/is/are using (polite)
• 使いました (tsukaimashita) – used (polite past)

Formal vs. Casual: Adapting “Tsukau” to Different Situations

Just like we discussed in our article about “Genki Desu Ka” meaning and usage, the Japanese language requires adjusting your speech based on social context. When using “tsukau,” consider these variations:

Casual Settings (with friends, family)

• パソコンを使うの？ (Pasokon o tsukau no?)
• Are you going to use the computer?

Formal Settings (workplace, with superiors)

• このソフトウェアを使いますか？ (Kono sofutowea o tsukaimasu ka?)
• Will you use this software?

Extra Polite (customer service, formal situations)

• こちらの用紙をお使いください。 (Kochira no yōshi o otsukaikudasai.)
• Please use this form.

Beyond Basics: Expanding Your “Tsukau” Vocabulary

Similar to our exploration of Japanese adverbs that enhance sentence meaning, there are many compound expressions using “tsukau” that can elevate your Japanese language skills:

Common Compound Expressions

• 使い方 (tsukai-kata) – way of using; usage method
• 使用する (shiyō suru) – to utilize (more formal)
• 使い分ける (tsukaiwakeru) – to use differently depending on the situation
• 使い切る (tsukaikiru) – to use up completely
• 使いこなす (tsukai-konasu) – to master the use of something

“Tsukau” in Different Contexts

The versatility of “tsukau” extends to various domains:

1. Financial Context:
   • お金を使う (okane o tsukau) – to spend money
2. Time Management:
   • 時間を使う (jikan o tsukau) – to spend/use time
3. Language Skills:
   • 日本語を使う (nihongo o tsukau) – to use Japanese

Common Mistakes When Using “Tsukau” in Japanese

Even intermediate learners can struggle with some aspects of using “tsukau” correctly. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

1. Confusion with similar verbs: Don’t confuse “tsukau” (to use) with “tsukuru” (作る – to make/create)
2. Incorrect particles: Always use the particle “を (o)” after the object being used, not “が (ga)”
3. Overextending usage: Some contexts call for more specific verbs:
   • For wearing clothes, use “kiru” (着る) instead of “tsukau”
   • For taking medicine, use “nomu” (飲む) instead of “tsukau”

Tips for Mastering “To Use” in Japanese

Just as we explored in our article about the difference between “yaru” and “suru”, understanding nuance is key. Here are some tips to help you master “tsukau”:

1. Practice daily vocabulary: Identify objects you use everyday and practice saying them with “tsukau”
2. Create flashcards: Make digital or physical flashcards with common “tsukau” expressions
3. Context-based learning: Learn phrases within realistic contexts rather than isolated vocabulary
4. Immersive practice: Try narrating your activities in Japanese as you use different objects throughout your day
5. Get feedback: Practice with native speakers who can correct your usage and pronunciation

Enhance Your Learning with Regular Practice

Learning how to properly use “tsukau” in Japanese is just one step in your language journey. For comprehensive Japanese language guides and resources, check out our Learn Japanese page where you can access free guides to accelerate your learning process.

Just like understanding “mainichi” (everyday) helps you discuss regular activities, mastering “tsukau” lets you describe how you interact with the world around you on a daily basis.

Q&A Section: Common Questions About “Tsukau” in Japanese

How do you say “to use” in Japanese?

You say “tsukau” (使う) to express “to use” in Japanese.

Can “tsukau” be used for all types of “using”?

No, “tsukau” is very common but has limitations. Certain actions like wearing clothes or consuming food/drink use different verbs.

What particle follows the object when using “tsukau”?

The particle “を (o)” follows the object being used with “tsukau.”

Is there a more formal way to say “to use” in Japanese?

Yes, “shiyō suru” (使用する) is a more formal equivalent often used in business or written contexts.

How do I conjugate “tsukau” in the past tense?

The past tense of “tsukau” is “tsukatta” (使った).

Can “tsukau” express the idea of “spending” money or time?

Yes, “tsukau” can be used with money (お金を使う) or time (時間を使う) to indicate spending these resources.

Understanding how to say “to use” in Japanese opens up countless possibilities for describing your daily activities and interactions. By mastering “tsukau” and its various conjugations, you’ll be one step closer to fluent, natural-sounding Japanese conversation. Remember to practice regularly and apply your knowledge in real-life situations for the best results.