Meaning

Primary

To Use

Word Type

transitive verb, godan verb

Explanation

The kanji means dispatch, but the word 遣う itself simply means to use because it's basically just a more formal version of 使う. Still, the kanji adds a subtle nuance: it suggests you're sending out some care or intention when using something, usually things like time, money, language, or feelings.

Note that you can almost always use 使う in everyday situations. 遣う is usually found in formal or literary Japanese, including older writing styles or texts that aim for a polished or dignified tone.

Reading

つかう
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

Since this is an alternate version of 使う, it has the same reading too. If you remember that, you can remember this word's reading.

Context

Context Sentences

アイツ、彼女のためにかなりお金を遣ったらしい。

He apparently spent a lot of money on his girlfriend.

自分の人生なんですから、どうせなら、自分の好きなことに時間を遣いたいじゃないですか。

It's my life, so if I'm gonna live it, I wanna spend my time doing what I love, you know?

まだ敬語を遣うのは苦手ですが、面接では出来る限りていねいな言葉遣いを心がけました。

I'm still not very good at using honorific language, but I tried to speak as politely as possible during the interview.

接客業は本当に神経を遣う仕事です。

Customer service is truly a mentally demanding job.

義理の両親と暮らすのって、毎日気を遣うだろうし、疲れちゃうと思うのよね。

I think living with my in-laws would mean I'd have to be really attentive to them every day, and I'd get worn out.

Kanji Composition