Translation guide
The English word 'user' can refer to a person who uses a product, service, or substance, or in computing, someone operating a system. Japanese has distinct terms for these contexts, and the most natural choice depends on what is being used.
To refer to a customer, consumer, or end-user of a product, service, or facility.
General term for a person who uses a service, facility, or system. Common in contexts like public transport, libraries, or online services.
この図書館の利用者は毎年増えています。
The number of users of this library is increasing every year.
利用者の声を聞いてサービスを改善します。
We will improve our services by listening to user feedback.
Loanword from English, widely used in tech and business for software, apps, or online platforms. Less formal than 利用者.
このアプリのユーザーは世界中にいます。
This app has users all over the world.
Refers to someone who operates or uses a device, tool, or machine. Often found in manuals or legal contexts.
この機械の使用者は必ず説明書を読んでください。
Users of this machine must read the manual.
To refer to someone logged into a computer, network, or software, often with an account.
Standard term in IT contexts. Can be combined with アカウント (account) or 権限 (permissions).
ユーザー名とパスワードを入力してください。
Please enter your username and password.
このシステムは複数のユーザーが同時に使えます。
This system can be used by multiple users at the same time.
Also used in IT, but more formal and often seen in documentation or policies.
To refer to someone who consumes or is addicted to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.
Neutral term for a person who uses a substance, often in medical or legal contexts. Can be modified: 薬物使用者 (drug user).
薬物使用者のための支援プログラムがあります。
There is a support program for drug users.
Specifically means a habitual or regular user, often of drugs. Implies addiction or frequent use.
To distinguish the final consumer from the creator or distributor.
Direct loanword for 'end user', common in business and tech.
エンドユーザーのニーズを理解することが重要です。
It's important to understand the needs of the end user.
More formal Japanese equivalent, used in contracts or official documents.
本製品の最終利用者は個人に限ります。
The end user of this product is limited to individuals.
利用者 is the safest general term for a person using a service or facility. ユーザー is best for software and tech, and sounds more modern. 使用者 is for operating tools/machines or substance use. Avoid using 使用者 for service users, as it can sound overly technical or legal.
図書館の利用者 → OK, 図書館のユーザー → 不自然
Library user → OK, Library user (ユーザー) → unnatural
In Japanese, ユーザー is not used for substance users. Use 使用者 or 常用者 instead. Using ユーザー in that context would be confusing or sound like a mistranslation.
When the number of users increases, it puts a load on the server.
彼は長年の麻薬常用者だ。
He is a long-term drug user.