'使用' (shǐ yòng) is a compound verb meaning 'to use' — literally combining '使' (to cause, to make happen) and '用' (to use, to employ). Together, they emphasize the intentional, functional application of something — whether a tool, method, resource, or language. It's more formal and deliberate than the simpler '用', often appearing in written contexts, instructions, official notices, or technical descriptions.

This word frequently appears with objects like devices (手机、电脑), methods (这种方法), languages (中文), or resources (水资源). It can take aspect particles like 了, 过, or 着, and commonly follows subjects indicating people or organizations (e.g., 我们、公司、医生). While it's neutral in register, it’s rarely used for casual, everyday actions like eating or walking — those favor the single-character '用' or other verbs.