Translation guide
The concept of using something again, either for the same purpose or a different one. Japanese expresses this through verbs, nouns, and compound words, with distinctions between general reuse, recycling, and repurposing.
To use something again, typically for its original purpose, such as reusing a container or reusing code.
The most common and general term for 'reuse'. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (再利用する). Suitable for both concrete objects and abstract things like data or code.
This bottle can be reused.
Code reuse is efficient.
Literally 'use repeatedly'. Emphasizes the repetitive aspect of reuse. More colloquial than 再利用.
This bag can be used repeatedly.
Loanword from English 'reuse'. Often used in environmental contexts or product labeling. Can be used as a noun or suru-verb.
reusable container
To take something and use it in a new way, different from its original purpose, like turning a jar into a vase.
Means 'diversion' or 'repurposing'. Used when something is used for a purpose other than its original one. Often used for objects, spaces, or skills.
They repurposed the old building into a cafe.
Literally 'use for a different purpose'. A straightforward way to express repurposing without a specialized term.
Let's reuse this box for something else.
To process used materials into new products, like recycling paper or plastic.
Describing something that can be used again, like a reusable bag or bottle.
再利用 (reuse) is using an item again without significant processing. リサイクル (recycling) involves breaking down materials to make new products. リユース is a loanword often used in environmental contexts similar to 再利用, but 再利用 is more common in everyday language.
While リユース is understood, it can sound like marketing jargon. In casual conversation, 再利用 or 繰り返し使う are more natural.
This technology can be repurposed for other fields.
A more formal term for recycling, emphasizing regeneration. Often used in technical or environmental policy contexts.
Promote the recycling of resources.