Translation guide
Expressing that two or more things are used together, in combination, or jointly. Japanese uses compound verbs, nouns with 併用, or adverbial phrases depending on the context.
To say that you use A and B together, often for a specific purpose or effect.
The most direct and common way to say 'use A and B together'. 併用 means 'combined use' or 'using together'. It is neutral and can be used in both spoken and written contexts.
この治療では薬と運動を併用します。
In this treatment, we use medication and exercise together.
Literally 'use A and B by combining them'. This is very natural and emphasizes the act of combining. Slightly more conversational than 併用.
このソフトとあのアプリを組み合わせて使うと便利です。
It's convenient if you use this software and that app together.
Noun meaning 'combined use'. Often used in technical or medical contexts. Can be used as a suru-verb (併用する).
薬の併用には注意が必要です。
Caution is required when using medications together.
Very casual and common. 'Use A and B together'. 一緒に means 'together'. Suitable for everyday conversation.
この洗剤と柔軟剤を一緒に使ってください。
Please use this detergent and fabric softener together.
To express that a space, tool, or service is shared or used jointly by multiple parties.
Noun meaning 'shared use' or 'common use'. Often used for facilities, equipment, or spaces. Can be used as a suru-verb (共用する).
このキッチンは入居者で共用です。
This kitchen is for shared use by the residents.
Literally 'use jointly'. 共同 means 'joint' or 'cooperative'. Emphasizes the collaborative aspect.
このプリンターは部署で共同で使っています。
We use this printer jointly within the department.
Loanword from English 'share'. Very common in casual contexts, especially for sharing resources or information.
この車はルームメイトとシェアしています。
I share this car with my roommate.
To express that an action is done together with another action, often using compound verbs with 兼ねる or 合わせる.
Pattern meaning 'do B while also serving as A' or 'do B, also functioning as A'. Useful when one action has a dual purpose.
勉強を兼ねて海外旅行に行く。
I'm going on an overseas trip, which also serves as study.
Pattern meaning 'do B together with A'. Often used when combining elements or actions.
この資料と合わせて前回の議事録もご確認ください。
Please check the previous meeting minutes together with this document.
併用 (へいよう) is for using two things together (e.g., drugs, methods). 共用 (きょうよう) is for sharing a single thing among multiple people (e.g., kitchen, printer). Do not confuse them.
The English phrase 'combined use' can sound unnatural if directly translated as 結合使用 (けつごうしよう) or 組み合わせ使用. Stick to the natural options above.
これら二つの薬の併用は推奨されません。
The combined use of these two drugs is not recommended.
オフィスには共用のキッチンがあります。
We have a combined use kitchen in our office.