When combined, `有用` (yǒuyòng) literally translates to “to have use.” This logical construction makes it one of the easier Chinese words for beginners to remember. It directly expresses the concept of possessing utility.
While `有用` is a simple vocabulary word, it taps into a deep-seated cultural value of pragmatism (实用主义, shíyòng zhǔyì) in Chinese society. There is often a strong emphasis on practicality and tangible outcomes. An education, a skill, or even an item is frequently judged by its “usefulness.” For example, a common question parents might ask their children is, “学这个有什么用?” (xué zhège yǒu shénme yòng?) — “What's the use of studying this?” This reflects a mindset where the value of an activity is often measured by its practical application, such as leading to a good job or a tangible skill. This can be contrasted with some Western cultural perspectives where learning for its own sake, for “personal enrichment,” or for abstract artistic expression is more commonly accepted without needing immediate justification of its “use.” For a learner, understanding this pragmatic lens helps explain why being `有用` is such a high compliment for a tool, a piece of advice, or a method in a Chinese context.
`有用` is an extremely common, everyday word used in all contexts, from casual conversation to formal reports.