Translation guide
The English word 'utility' covers several distinct concepts: practical usefulness, a public service like electricity or water, and a software tool. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
The most direct equivalent for 'utility' in the sense of practical usefulness. Often used in technical or evaluative contexts.
This design emphasizes utility.
Means 'usefulness' or 'utility' in a broader sense. Slightly more formal and often used in academic or business contexts.
The utility of this research is clear.
Everyday word for 'convenience' or 'handiness'. Use this when 'utility' means something is convenient and easy to use.
The utility of this app is amazing.
Referring to essential public services like electricity, gas, water, etc.
Refers to utility bills or charges for public services. Often used in the context of paying for electricity, gas, water.
Don't forget to pay the utility bills.
Katakana word for 'lifeline', used to refer to essential utilities like electricity, gas, water, and communications. Often used in disaster contexts.
Referring to a small software program or tool that performs a specific task.
Katakana loanword directly from 'utility'. Commonly used in IT contexts for utility software.
You can organize files using this utility.
General word for 'tool', often used for software tools. More common than ユーティリティ in casual conversation.
The katakana word ユーティリティ is only used for software or sometimes in economics (utility theory). It is not used for electricity, water, or gas services. Use 公共料金 or ライフライン instead.
The utilities stopped due to the earthquake.
Formal term for 'public utility enterprise'. Used in business or legal contexts.
The company operates a public utility.
There are many useful utilities.