Definition
实用 (shí yòng) means 'practical, functional' — it describes something that works well in real use, like a tool or skill. Unlike 实际 (shí jì), which contrasts with theory ('actual, realistic'), and 务实 (wù shí), which describes a pragmatic attitude or approach, 实用 focuses on the utility and effectiveness of an object or method.
adjective
practicalfunctionalpragmatic
Easily confused
- 使用shǐ yòngsound-aliketo use, to employ, to apply
- 适用shì yòngsound-alikeapplicable, suitable (for a particular situation or use)
- 食用shí yòngsound-aliketo consume (food); to eat (formal)
- 试用shì yòngsound-aliketo try out (a product, software, etc.)
Examples
- 实用，。Zhège shèjì hěn shí yòng, yòng qǐlái hěn fāngbiàn.This design is very practical; it's convenient to use.
- 实用，。Zhège ruǎnjiàn hěn shí yòng, néng bāng nǐ jiějué hěnduō wèntí.This software is very functional; it can help you solve many problems.
- 实用。shí yòng jìnéng bǐ lǐlùn zhīshi gèng zhòngyào.Practical skills are more important than theoretical knowledge.
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