How to say "usage" in Japanese

• 用法ようほうJLPT N1approx.Common
  nounCovers 'usage' as the way of using something, often in the sense of directions or rules for correct use. Typical in manuals, instructions, and guidance on proper handling or application of a thing.
  その２語ごの用法ようほうの区別くべつは明瞭めいりょうである。↗

  The distinction in usage between the two words is clear.
• 習俗しゅうぞくCommon
  nounCovers 'usage' only in the sense of manners and customs or folkways — established social practices. For any other sense of 'usage' this is seldom the word you want; it really means custom.
• 語法ごほうCommon
  nounCovers 'usage' in the linguistic sense: diction, grammar, and how words and expressions are actually used in a language. The natural choice when discussing correct or idiomatic usage of language.
  この辞書じしょは特とくに語法ごほうに重点じゅうてんを置おいている。↗

  This dictionary puts a special emphasis on usage.
• 使い方つかいかたCommon
  nounCovers 'usage' as the way to use or how to use something, in everyday, concrete contexts. More casual and conversational than 用法, and the usual word when simply explaining how a tool or device is used.
  人類じんるいだけが火ひの使い方つかいかたを知しっている。↗

  Only man knows how to use fire.

For 'usage' meaning how something is used, choose 用法 or the plainer 「使い方」; for linguistic usage choose 語法; for 'usage' as custom or folkways, 習俗 is the word.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 用法ようほうway of using (something)
• 習俗しゅうぞくmanners and customs
• 語法ごほうdiction
• 使い方つかいかたway of using (something)
• 語格ごかくusage
• 利用法りようほうusage
• 古格こかくconvention
• 使用量しようりょうamount used
• 俗習ぞくしゅうcustom
• 使用方法しようほうほうhow to use (something)
• 例れいcustom
• 使いつかいuse
• 型かたconvention