Translation guide
This English phrase means to use something effectively, often to gain an advantage or benefit. In Japanese, the most natural equivalents depend on whether you are using a resource, skill, time, opportunity, or object. The most common and versatile expression is 活用する (かつようする), which covers many cases. Other options like 有効活用する (ゆうこうかつようする) emphasize efficiency, while 上手に使う (じょうずにつかう) is more casual. For making the most of an opportunity, 活かす (いかす) or 生かす (いかす) is often used.
To employ something (time, money, talent, information, etc.) in a way that maximizes its value or benefit.
The most common and versatile verb for 'make good use of.' It implies actively utilizing something to get the most out of it. Suitable for both concrete and abstract resources.
Please tell me how to make good use of my time.
He makes good use of his experience in his work.
Emphasizes efficient or effective use, often in formal or business contexts. Literally 'effective utilization.'
We must make good use of limited resources.
A more casual, everyday expression meaning 'to use skillfully/well.' Suitable for tools, appliances, or personal skills.
If you make good use of this app, your studies will progress faster.
Means 'to use' or 'to utilize,' often for facilities, services, or opportunities. It can imply taking advantage of something available, but not necessarily with the nuance of 'good' use unless modified (e.g., 有効に利用する).
You should make better use of the library.
Means 'to master the use of' or 'to handle skillfully.' Implies a high level of proficiency with a tool or system.
He makes good use of the new software (he has mastered it).
To take full advantage of a chance, circumstance, or experience to achieve a positive outcome.
Means 'to make the most of,' 'to capitalize on,' or 'to put to good use.' Often used for opportunities, lessons learned, or personal strengths. Can be written as 生かす as well.
I want to make good use of this experience in my next job.
Literally 'use effectively.' A straightforward way to say 'make good use of' for time, money, or opportunities.
To apply knowledge, skills, or objects in a practical way, often after learning or acquiring them.
Means 'to put to good use' or 'to make useful.' Emphasizes that something is being used for a beneficial purpose. Often used for knowledge, skills, or donations.
I want to make good use of what I've learned in society.
Means 'to put into practice.' Used when applying theoretical knowledge or skills in real situations.
He put the theory to good use and got results.
活用する (かつようする) implies actively making the most of something, often with creativity or effort. 利用する (りようする) is more neutral 'use' and can simply mean 'to avail oneself of' a service or facility. For 'make good use of,' 活用する is usually a better fit unless the context is about using something available (like a library or coupon).
Do not translate 'make good use of' literally as 良い使用をする or similar. It sounds unnatural. Use the verbs and phrases above instead.
Make good use of your time.
She made good use of her talents.
He made good use of the opportunity and succeeded.
Let's make good use of our time and finish early.
Please make good use of this money for something beneficial.