1. Meaning and Usage
The core meaning of the kanji 用 is "to use," "task," "business," or "purpose." It represents the concept of utilizing something for a specific function or having a particular errand to attend to.
Common Readings and Words:
よう (yō): The Sino-Japanese reading used in compound words.
使用 (shiyō): Use, application. (使-use + 用-use)
用意 (yōi): Preparation, readiness. (用-task + 意-mind → "to set one's mind to a task")
用品 (yōhin): Articles, supplies. (用-use + 品-item)
用事 (yōji): Errand, business, something to do. (用-business + 事-matter)
实用 (jitsuyō): Practical use. (实-real + 用-use)
もち (mochi): Used in the native Japanese verb.
用いる (mochiiru): The verb "to use," "to employ." (This is a more formal verb than 使う tsukau).
2. Correct Stroke Order
Writing 用 correctly is essential for balance. The kanji has an enclosing structure.
Total Strokes: 5
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
Stroke 1: Left vertical stroke (竖).
Stroke 2: The horizontal折 (oritsu). This stroke forms the top and the right side. Start from the left, write the top horizontal, then turn and go down the right side.
Stroke 3: The vertical stroke (竖) inside the enclosure.
Stroke 4: The left-falling stroke (撇) inside.
Stroke 5: The right-dot stroke (捺) inside.
Key Stroke Order Rules Applied:
Enclose before Close: The outer structure (Strokes 1 and 2) is established before the internal components are filled in.
Left to Right: The two internal strokes are written from left to right.
3. Historical Origins and Etymology (The "Story" Behind the Kanji)
The history of 用 is a fascinating example of how a kanji's form can evolve from a very concrete object. It is classified as a 指事文字 (shiji moji) or ideographic character, meaning it was derived from a pictograph.
The Origin:
The kanji 用 is a stylized pictograph of a "bucket" or a "wooden pail."
If you look at its ancient form, you can see the handle on the top and the body of the bucket. A bucket is a classic example of a tool—an object that has a clear purpose and use.
The Evolution of Meaning:
The meaning evolved logically from the object itself:
From the concrete object: "Bucket"
To its function: "To use" (a bucket is used for carrying water)
To the abstract concept: "Use," "Function," "Purpose," "Task"
The character 用 brilliantly captures the essence of utility. A bucket is not just a static object; its entire identity is defined by its use. This is why the character came to represent the very idea of functionality and purposefulness.
4. Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences showing the different uses of 用.
As "To Use" (Formal Verb):
Romaji: Kono hōhō o mochiite mondai o kaiketsu shita.
English: I used this method to solve the problem.
この方法を用いて問題を解決した。
As "Errand/Business" (よう):
Romaji: Chotto yōji ga aru node, saki ni shitsurei shimasu.
English: I have an errand to run, so please excuse me for leaving first.
ちょっと用事があるので、先に失礼します。
As "Use" (よう):
Romaji: Kono kikai no shiyōhō o oshiete kudasai.
English: Please teach me how to use this machine.
この機械の使用法を教えてください。
As "Preparation" (よう):
Romaji: Kaigi no yōi wa dekite imasu.
English: The preparations for the meeting are complete.
会議の用意はできています。
Summary
Meaning: To use, task, business, purpose, function.
Writing: 5 strokes. Write the enclosing structure first, then the internal strokes from left to right.
Origin: An ideographic character derived from a pictograph of a "bucket" or "wooden pail." The meaning evolved from the concrete object to its function, eventually representing the abstract ideas of use, purpose, and task. The character embodies the principle that an object's identity is defined by its utility.