Translation guide
Describes something shared by a group, such as facilities, spaces, or resources. Japanese uses specific nouns, verbs, and compound terms depending on what is shared.
Referring to things like kitchens, bathrooms, lounges, or equipment that are used by everyone in a group.
A prefix or noun meaning 'joint' or 'communal'. Often used in compounds like 共同使用 (communal use) or 共同施設 (communal facilities).
このアパートには共同のキッチンがあります。
This apartment has a communal kitchen.
Means 'shared use'. Commonly seen on signs or in rules for shared spaces like bathrooms or equipment.
このトイレは共用です。
This restroom is for communal use.
Focuses on joint ownership or sharing of resources, often used for digital files, property, or abstract things.
このファイルは共有フォルダに入れてください。
Please put this file in the communal folder.
Describing the act or policy of using something communally, often in official contexts.
The direct translation of 'communal use', used in formal rules or descriptions.
この公園は地域住民の共同使用に供されています。
This park is provided for communal use by local residents.
A slightly more formal term for shared use, often in facility management.
共用利用のルールを守ってください。
Please follow the rules for communal use.
Referring to shared use of agricultural land, forests, or water sources by a community.
A traditional term for communal use of forests or fields by villagers. Rare in modern urban contexts.
この山は村の入会地です。
This mountain is communal land for the village.
共同 emphasizes joint action or ownership (e.g., 共同作業 = joint work). 共用 focuses on shared use of facilities (e.g., 共用トイレ = shared restroom). 共有 is for shared possession, often intangible or digital (e.g., 情報共有 = information sharing). For 'communal use' of spaces, 共用 is most natural.