Meaning
用 is one of the most fundamental verbs in Mandarin, meaning 'to use' or 'to employ.' It appears in countless everyday expressions and can also function as a preposition meaning 'with' or 'by means of.' The character originally depicted a bronze vessel used in rituals, representing functionality and purpose.
Usage
用 is extremely common in daily speech and appears in both formal and informal contexts. As a verb, it typically takes an object (用 + thing used). As a preposition, it introduces the instrument or means by which something is done (用 + tool/method). Native speakers use it constantly in phrases like 用手机 (use a phone) or 用中文 (in Chinese).
Examples
- 01我每天用手机学习中文。.I use my phone to study Chinese every day.
- 02这个方法很有用。.This method is very useful.
Common collocations
- 用力to exert strength, to make an effort
- 不用don't need to, no need
- 用心to be attentive, to put one's heart into
- 用处use, usefulness
Antonyms
Origin
The character 用 originally depicted a ceremonial bronze vessel, representing something with practical utility and purpose.