Translation guide
The concept of using something again, either for the same purpose or a different one. Japanese expresses this through verbs, nouns, and compound words, with distinctions between general reuse, recycling, and repurposing.
To use something again, typically for its original purpose, such as reusing a container or reusing code.
The most common and general term for 'reuse'. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (再利用する). Suitable for both concrete objects and abstract things like data or code.
この瓶は再利用できます。
This bottle can be reused.
コードの再利用は効率的です。
Code reuse is efficient.
Literally 'use repeatedly'. Emphasizes the repetitive aspect of reuse. More colloquial than 再利用.
この袋は繰り返し使えます。
This bag can be used repeatedly.
Loanword from English 'reuse'. Often used in environmental contexts or product labeling. Can be used as a noun or suru-verb.
リユース可能な容器
reusable container
To take something and use it in a new way, different from its original purpose, like turning a jar into a vase.
Means 'diversion' or 'repurposing'. Used when something is used for a purpose other than its original one. Often used for objects, spaces, or skills.
古い建物をカフェに転用した。
They repurposed the old building into a cafe.
この技術は他の分野にも転用できる。
This technology can be repurposed for other fields.
Literally 'use for a different purpose'. A straightforward way to express repurposing without a specialized term.
この箱を別の用途に使おう。
Let's reuse this box for something else.
To process used materials into new products, like recycling paper or plastic.
The standard term for 'recycling'. Refers to the process of converting waste into reusable material. Often used as a noun or suru-verb.
ペットボトルをリサイクルする。
Recycle plastic bottles.
Describing something that can be used again, like a reusable bag or bottle.
Standard adjective meaning 'reusable'. Attaches directly to nouns.
再利用可能な袋を持参してください。
Please bring a reusable bag.
More colloquial way to say 'reusable', literally 'can be used repeatedly'.
この水筒は繰り返し使える。
This water bottle is reusable.
再利用 (reuse) is using an item again without significant processing. リサイクル (recycling) involves breaking down materials to make new products. リユース is a loanword often used in environmental contexts similar to 再利用, but 再利用 is more common in everyday language.
While リユース is understood, it can sound like marketing jargon. In casual conversation, 再利用 or 繰り返し使う are more natural.
A more formal term for recycling, emphasizing regeneration. Often used in technical or environmental policy contexts.
資源の再生利用を推進する。
Promote the recycling of resources.