Translation guide
Describes something that has not been used, is still new, or remains in its original condition. The most common Japanese word is 未使用 (mishiyō), but other expressions apply depending on whether you mean 'brand new', 'leftover', 'idle', or 'unused potential'.
Something that has not been used at all, often still in new condition.
The standard, neutral word for 'unused'. Suitable for objects, tickets, coupons, etc.
この切符は未使用です。
This ticket is unused.
I have a lot of unused stamps.
Means 'brand new' or 'unused' for items, emphasizing they are in new condition. Often used for products.
これは新品のバッグです。
This is a brand new bag.
Specifically means 'unopened', for sealed packages or containers.
未開封の食品は安全です。
Unopened food is safe.
Something that exists but is not being utilized right now, like a spare item or idle resource.
The most natural way to say 'not using' in casual or neutral contexts. Literally 'not using'.
使っていない部屋があります。
We have an unused room.
使っていない自転車を貸してあげる。
I'll lend you my unused bicycle.
Passive form, 'is not being used'. Slightly more formal or objective.
この機械は長い間使われていない。
This machine has been unused for a long time.
Literally 'playing', but can mean 'idle' or 'unused' for money, resources, or people with free time.
Only for resources or people, not for objects like tickets.
遊んでいるお金を投資しよう。
Let's invest the unused money.
Referring to talents, opportunities, or resources that are not being taken advantage of.
Means 'not being utilized' or 'not put to good use', often for skills or potential.
彼の才能はまだ活かされていない。
His talent is still unused.
Metaphorical 'sleeping', meaning dormant or unused potential.
眠っている資源を活用する。
Utilize unused resources.
Specifically for tickets, coupons, or prepaid cards that have not been redeemed.
Again, the standard term. Often seen on resale sites.
未使用の商品券を買い取ります。
We buy unused gift certificates.
A more formal term for 'unused' or 'unutilized', often in official contexts like government benefits.
未利用のクーポンが多数あります。
There are many unused coupons.
未使用 simply means 'not used', while 新品 emphasizes 'brand new' condition. A 新品 item is always 未使用, but an 未使用 item might not be 新品 if it's old or opened.
未使用だけど新品ではない。
It's unused but not brand new.
使わない means 'will not use' or 'don't use', not 'unused'. Use 未使用 or 使っていない instead.