Translation guide
The English word 'misuse' covers a range of actions from incorrect use to harmful abuse. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on whether you mean using something incorrectly, abusing power or trust, or using language wrongly.
To express that a tool, system, word, or method is used in a wrong or unintended way.
A general noun meaning 'misuse' or 'incorrect use'. Often used for language, terms, or tools. Can be used with する to mean 'to misuse'.
この言葉はよく誤用される。
This word is often misused.
機器の誤用は事故の原因になります。
Misuse of equipment can cause accidents.
A natural, everyday phrase meaning 'to use something the wrong way'. More conversational than 誤用する.
このアプリの使い方を間違えてしまった。
I misused this app (used it the wrong way).
Literally 'to do an incorrect way of using'. Slightly more formal than 使い方を間違える.
誤った使い方をすると故障の原因になります。
Misusing it (using it incorrectly) can cause malfunctions.
Means 'abuse' or 'misuse for a bad purpose'. Stronger than 誤用. Use when the misuse is intentional and harmful, like exploiting a system.
この制度は悪用される可能性がある。
This system could be misused (abused).
To express that someone uses their position, authority, or funds in a dishonest or harmful way.
The standard word for 'abuse' or 'misuse' of power, trust, or funds. Implies intentional wrongdoing.
彼は会社の資金を悪用した。
He misused company funds.
権力の悪用は許されない。
Misuse of power is unacceptable.
Means 'to use fraudulently/illegitimately'. Often used in legal or official contexts.
補助金を不正に使用した疑いがある。
He is suspected of misusing subsidies.
Means 'abuse' or 'overuse', often implying excessive or reckless misuse, like drug abuse or abuse of authority.
To express that someone uses a word with the wrong meaning or in the wrong context.
A natural way to say 'to misuse a word'. More conversational than 誤用.
その言葉の使い方を間違えているよ。
You're misusing that word.
The standard noun for 'misuse' of language. Often used in dictionaries or language learning.
この表現は誤用とされることが多い。
This expression is often considered a misuse.
誤用 (ごよう) is neutral 'misuse' or 'incorrect use', often unintentional. 悪用 (あくよう) is intentional 'abuse' for a bad purpose, like fraud or exploitation. 乱用 (らんよう) is 'overuse' or 'reckless abuse', like drug abuse or abuse of power.
In many cases, a phrase like 使い方を間違える or 悪用 is more natural than the noun 誤用. Choose based on whether the misuse is accidental or intentional.
薬物乱用は深刻な問題だ。
Drug misuse (abuse) is a serious problem.