Meaning and Usage
The word 用事 (ようじ) refers to tasks, errands, or business that someone needs to take care of. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to talk about personal or work-related matters that require attention.
Common Contexts
用事 often appears when explaining why someone is busy or unavailable, such as leaving work early or not being able to meet friends. It can refer to anything from small errands to important appointments.
Collocations and Patterns
- 用事がある: to have something to do or an errand to run.
- 用事を済ませる: to finish one's business or errands.
- 用事で忙しい: busy with tasks or errands.
These phrases are very common and useful for explaining your schedule or availability.
Register and Politeness
用事 is neutral and polite enough for daily conversation, both casual and formal. It is not overly formal but appropriate in workplace and social settings.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 用事 with 仕事 (しごと), which means "work" or "job." 用事 is broader and can include personal errands, while 仕事 specifically refers to one's job or professional work. Use 用事 when talking about general tasks or errands outside of formal work contexts.