用 (yòng) — to use

用 (yòng)

A common verb meaning "to use" something. It also functions as a preposition meaning "with" or "by means of" (using a tool or method). It is one of the most frequent words in daily Chinese.

Meanings

1. [verb] To use, to employ, to make use of.
2. [preposition] With, by means of (using a tool or method).

Example Sentences

你用什么写字？ Nǐ yòng shénme xiězì? What do you use to write?

我用筷子吃饭。 Wǒ yòng kuàizi chīfàn. I eat with chopsticks.

这个手机很好用。 Zhège shǒujī hěn hǎo yòng. This phone is very easy to use.

请不要用手机上课。 Qǐng bùyào yòng shǒujī shàngkè. Please do not use your phone during class.

Collocations

Memory Hook

用 looks like a bucket or container being put to work — something you reach into and draw from to accomplish a task. You use what you have.