What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Google翻訳 (Google Translate), the object marker を (o) and 使っています (tsukatte imasu), which means "am using".
Which one should you use?
While the default form Google翻訳を使っています is a standard polite way to say you are using the tool, other variations exist depending on the specific nuance of your sentence. For example, 私はGoogle翻訳を使用しています is a more formal way to state "I use Google Translate," and わたしはGoogle翻訳を使うよ is an informal way to say "I use Google Translate."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The default form Google翻訳を使っています is polite and standard, making it suitable for communicating with strangers or in formal settings due to the ～ています (te-imasu) ending.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb 使っています implies the continuous action of using Google Translate. Adding 私は to the beginning of a sentence signifies "I."
How do you pronounce it?
Gūguru honyaku o tsukatte imasu
Did you know?
- In Japanese, the word 翻訳 (honyaku) specifically refers to written translation, while 通訳 (tsūyaku) is used for spoken interpretation.
- Adding the word for 'I' (私は) to this phrase can make you sound unnaturally emphatic or overly formal to a native speaker, as the subject is already implied.
- While the phrase uses the verb 使う (tsukau) for 'use', this word can also mean 'to spend' when referring to money or time.
Examples in context
- わたし、Google翻訳使ってるの。I use Google Translate.
- すみません、今Google翻訳を使っています。Sumimasen, ima Google honyaku o tsukatte imasu.Excuse me, I am using Google Translate right now.
- うまく伝わるか分かりませんが、Google翻訳を使っています。Umaku tsutawaru ka wakarimasen ga, Google honyaku o tsukatte imasu.I don't know if this conveys well, but I am using Google Translate.
Example conversation
Ren is trying to ask Misaki for directions using a translation app.
- 蓮 Renすみません、Google翻訳を使っています。Sumimasen, Google honyaku o tsukatte imasu.Excuse me, I am using Google Translate.
- 美咲 Misaki大丈夫ですよ。何かお手伝いしましょうか？Daijoubu desu yo. Nanika otetsudai shimashou ka?That's fine. Shall I help you with something?
- 蓮 Ren駅への行き方を教えてください。Eki e no ikikata o oshiete kudasai.Please tell me how to get to the station.
- 美咲 Misakiはい、この道をまっすぐ行ってください。Hai, kono michi o massugu itte kudasai.Yes, please go straight down this street.
