Gaining a solid understanding of different vocabulary and phrases is essential when learning a new language. In Japanese, one common word you’ll come across is “used”. Whether you want to describe a used item or discuss past experiences, it’s important to know how to express this concept properly. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “used” in Japanese, both formally and informally, while providing tips, examples, and additional insights. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Used”
Tip: Formal phrases are typically used in official settings, such as business meetings, job interviews, or when speaking to someone older or in a higher position.
1. 既に使用された (sudeni shiyō sareta) – This is a polite expression often used to describe something that has already been used. For instance, if you are referring to a pre-owned car, you can say 既に使用された車 (sudeni shiyō sareta kuruma).
2. 中古 (chūko) – Another formal term meaning “used” is 中古. It is often used when talking about second-hand or pre-owned items, such as 中古車 (chūko kuruma) for a used car or 中古本 (chūko-hon) for used books.
Informal Expressions for “Used”
Tip: Informal expressions are used in casual conversations, among friends, or with individuals of similar age or lower social hierarchy.
1. 使い古された (tsukaifuri sareta) – This informal phrase is commonly used to describe something that has been heavily used or worn out. For example, if you want to state that a toy or gadget is used, you can say 使い古されたおもちゃ (tsukaifuri sareta omocha).
2. ユーズド (yūzudo) – While borrowing the English term “used,” it turned into the katakana loanword ユーズド. This expression is frequently used in casual conversations, especially among younger generations. For instance, you can say ユーズドカー (yūzudo kā) to refer to a used car.
Regional Variations
Japan consists of different regions, each having its own local dialects and variations. When it comes to expressing “used” in a regional context, the variations mentioned earlier can generally be used. However, there are a few regional terms worth noting:
Kansai Dialect
In the Kansai region, people commonly use the term 外品 (gaihin) to mean “used” or “second-hand”. For example, you might hear locals refer to a used item as このカメラは外品 (kono kamera wa gaihin).
Hokkaido Dialect
In Hokkaido, the term チョンマゲ (chonmage) is used to describe “used” items. For instance, locals might say このスキー板はチョンマゲ (kono sukī ita wa chonmage) to talk about used skis.
Tips and Examples for Using “Used” in Japanese
1. Adjust your vocabulary and politeness level based on the situation. Use formal expressions when speaking formally, and informal expressions when in casual settings.
2. Combine “used” with specific nouns to give more context. For instance, この洋服は中古です (kono yōfuku wa chūko desu) translates to “This clothing is used.”
3. Use appropriate counters when talking about a specific number of used items. For example, ５冊の中古本 (go-satsu no chūko-hon) means “five used books”.
Here are a few more examples:
- 彼は中古のギターを買った。(Kare wa chūko no gitā o katta) – He bought a used guitar.
- このパソコンは使い古された。(Kono pasokon wa tsukaifuri sareta) – This computer is heavily used.
- 私は中古のバイクを購入しました。(Watashi wa chūko no baiku o kōnyū shimashita) – I bought a used bike.
- 彼はユーズドジーンズを着ている。(Kare wa yūzudo jīnzu o kite iru) – He is wearing used jeans.
Remember, learning a language involves not only memorizing individual words but also understanding the proper usage according to different contexts. Practice regularly and use these expressions in conversations to become more comfortable with their usage.
Now that you have a better understanding of how to say “used” in Japanese, you can confidently incorporate this word into your vocabulary. Whether you are discussing pre-owned items or describing past experiences, these expressions will prove useful throughout your Japanese language journey.
Enjoy exploring the richness of the Japanese language!
