expression
things depend on how you use them; all things have their uses when used right
Proverb meaning that even seemingly useless things can be valuable if used cleverly or appropriately.
物は使いようで、ただの石ころも役に立つことがある。
Things depend on how you use them; even a mere pebble can be useful.
古い道具でも、物は使いようだから捨てずに取ってある。
Even old tools can be useful if used right, so I keep them instead of throwing them away.
Noun meaning 'way of using'; 物は使いよう is a set phrase built around it.
A Japanese proverb composed of 物 (thing), は (topic marker), and 使いよう (way of using). The exact origin is uncertain, but it reflects a common cultural attitude toward resourcefulness.