verb HSK 4
to use less · to use sparingly · to reduce usage
Meaning
少用 means to use something in smaller quantities or less frequently. It combines 少 (few, less) with 用 (to use), creating a verb that expresses the idea of conserving or reducing consumption of resources, products, or practices.
Usage
少用 is commonly used in environmental contexts, health advice, and resource conservation discussions. It often appears in imperative sentences as recommendations or instructions. Native speakers frequently pair it with specific objects like plastic bags, electricity, or chemicals to emphasize sustainable practices.
Examples
- 01为了环保，我们应该少用一次性筷子。, .For environmental protection, we should use fewer disposable chopsticks.
- 02医生建议他少用眼睛，多休息。, .The doctor advised him to use his eyes less and rest more.
Characters
Common collocations
- 少用塑料袋use fewer plastic bags
- 少用电use less electricity
- 少用手机use the phone less
- 少用化学品use fewer chemicals
Antonyms
Origin
This is a straightforward compound of two common characters with transparent meaning: less + use = use less.