Definition
试用 (shì yòng) means 'to try something out' in a practical, real-world context — testing a product, software, or being on probation for a job. It is more specific than 试 (shì, to try in general) and less scientific than 试验 (shì yàn, to experiment). 试行 (shì xíng, to test on a trial basis) is used for systems or policies rather than products or people.
verb
to try out (a product, software, etc.)to be on probation (for a job)
Easily confused
- 使用shǐ yòngsound-aliketo use, to employ, to apply
- 适用shì yòngsound-alikeapplicable, suitable (for a particular situation or use)
- 实用shí yòngsound-alikepractical, functional, pragmatic
- 食用shí yòngsound-aliketo consume (food); to eat (formal)
Examples
- 试用。Wǒ xiǎng shì yòng zhège xīn shǒujī.I want to try out this new phone.
- 。Gōngsī gěi le wǒ sān gè yuè de shì yòng qī.The company gave me a three-month probation period.
- 试用，。Nǐ kěyǐ xiān shì yòng, zài juédìng mǎi bù mǎi.You can try it out first, then decide whether to buy.
Browse more HSK 5 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.