使い道
Meanings
Refers to the intended function or goal for which something is employed; often used when discussing how money, time, or resources are to be used.
Please clarify how the donations will be used.
I need to rethink how I use my time.
way to use; method of using
Focuses on the practical manner or method of employing a tool, object, or resource; often interchangeable with sense 1 but emphasizes the 'how' rather than the 'why'.
Please show me how to use this tool.
I discovered a new way to use the app.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉の使い道the use/purpose of something (esp. money, time)
I haven't decided yet what to use this money for.
- 使い道があるto have a use (for something)
Even old tools still have a use.
- 使い道に困るto be at a loss over what to use something for
I'm at a loss over what to do with this sudden windfall of money.
- 使い道を考えるto think about how/what to use something for
I want to take my time thinking about what to do with my bonus.
- 使い道が広いto have a wide range of uses
Baking soda is convenient because it has such a wide range of uses.