Translation guide
The English verb "expend" generally means to use up resources such as time, energy, money, or effort. Japanese expresses this concept through various verbs depending on the type of resource and context.
To spend or consume time, effort, or energy on an activity.
A versatile verb meaning to spend or expend time, effort, money, etc. Often used in formal or written contexts.
He expended a lot of time on his research.
A general verb meaning 'to use'. Can be used for expending time, effort, or money in casual contexts.
We expended considerable effort on this project.
Means 'to consume' and is often used for energy, fuel, or resources. More technical than 使う.
This machine expends a large amount of electricity.
Literally 'to pour', used metaphorically for expending effort, passion, or energy into something.
She expends her passion on education.
To pay out money, especially in a formal or business context.
A formal verb meaning 'to expend' or 'to disburse' money, often used in accounting or official contexts.
The company expended a large amount of funds on new equipment.
Also used for spending money, especially when emphasizing the consumption aspect.
The most common verb for spending money in everyday conversation.
To burn calories or use physical energy, often in the context of exercise or metabolism.
費やす (tsuiyasu) is more formal and emphasizes the act of spending resources, often time or effort. 使う (tsukau) is the general verb 'to use' and is suitable for casual contexts. 消費する (shouhi suru) is technical and focuses on consumption, especially of energy or goods.
English 'expend' often sounds formal. In Japanese, using 使う is natural in most everyday situations. Overusing 費やす or 支出する can sound stiff.
They expended all their energy on the project.
The government expended millions on the new system.
彼は車に大金を費やした。
He expended a fortune on his car.
I've already expended 50,000 yen this month.
Aerobic exercise is effective for expending fat.