Translation guide
The English word 'handy' has several distinct meanings: convenient/useful, skillful with hands, and nearby/accessible. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each.
He's handy around the house.
Skillful with hands
Describing something that is easy to use, practical, or makes tasks easier.
The most common and general word for 'convenient' or 'useful'. Used for tools, services, locations, etc.
This app is really handy.
It's handy living near the station.
Emphasizes that something is highly valued for its usefulness, often for a specific purpose. Slightly more subjective than 便利.
Literally 'to be of use'. Used when something proves helpful in a situation. More about practical help than inherent convenience.
Focuses on ease of use and good usability, often for tools or interfaces.
This kitchen tool is handy.
Describing a person who is good at making or fixing things with their hands.
The standard way to say someone is dexterous or good with their hands.
He's handy and can fix anything.
Means dexterous, skillful, or clever with hands. Can be used alone but often paired with 手先.
Specifically refers to being good at DIY/home improvement, which is a common nuance of 'handy'.
Describing something that is close at hand or within easy reach.
Literally 'to be near at hand'. Used for objects that are conveniently close.
It's handy to have scissors nearby.
Means 'very close by', often for locations.
It's handy having a convenience store right nearby.
Refers to something familiar and close to one's daily life, not just physical proximity.
The loanword ハンディ (handi) is not used for 'handy' in the sense of convenient or skillful. It mainly appears in compounds like ハンディキャップ (handicap) or ハンディカム (Handycam). Avoid using it to mean 'handy'.
便利 is objective convenience (e.g., a location is convenient). 重宝 implies personal appreciation and frequent use (e.g., a gadget you find indispensable). 重宝する is a verb meaning 'to find something handy and use it often'.
Keep a flashlight handy.
This feature comes in handy.
この小さなナイフはキャンプで重宝する。
This little knife is handy when camping.
I hope this information is handy.
彼女はとても器用だ。
She's very handy.
My dad is handy and does all the home repairs himself.
スマホは現代人にとって身近な道具だ。
Smartphones are a handy tool for modern people.