Translation guide
This guide covers how to express the idea of 'making use of' something in Japanese, from practical utilization to taking advantage of opportunities or people.
To use an object, tool, facility, or resource to achieve a goal.
The most common and versatile verb for 'use'. Works for objects, tools, money, time, etc.
Please make use of this machine.
Make good use of time.
Often implies utilizing a service, system, or opportunity. Slightly more formal than 使う.
Make use of the library.
Please make use of this service.
To put something to good use, especially skills, knowledge, or resources. Implies effective application.
Make use of one's experience at work.
To exploit a chance, circumstance, or favorable condition.
To exploit or take advantage of someone for one's own benefit.
To apply abstract things like knowledge, talent, or experience.
To make the most of something, bring it to life. Often used for skills, experience, or lessons learned.
Make use of failure for future success.
A job where you can make use of your talents.
Similar to 生かす but slightly more formal; emphasizes effective utilization.
Make use of knowledge.
使う is the general 'use'. 利用する implies utilizing a service, facility, or opportunity, often with a sense of benefit. 活用する means to actively apply something effectively, especially skills or resources. For people, 利用する can sound manipulative.
Do not translate 'make use of' literally as 使用を作る or similar. Use the verbs above directly.