Nuance & Usage
アプリ is the shortened form of アプリケーション (application — software app). It is one of the most commonly used tech words in modern Japanese conversation, especially in the context of smartphones. Common uses: アプリをダウンロードする (download an app), アプリを使う (use an app), 地図アプリ (map app), 翻訳アプリ (translation app), アプリを削除する (delete an app). In business contexts, the full form ソフトウェア (software) or アプリケーション is more formal.
Common Mistakes
アプリ is a casual shortening — in formal business contexts, アプリケーション or ソフトウェア may be more appropriate. Common grammar: アプリで〇〇する (do ○○ using an app) — use で as the particle for means. Don't say アプリに (unless you're saying something like アプリに保存する — save to the app). The plural is expressed with アプリがたくさんある (there are many apps), not アプリ + plural suffix (Japanese doesn't have plural forms).
Example Sentences (3)
このアプリを使えば、日本語の発音を練習できますよ。
このあぷりをつかえば、にほんごのはつおんをれんしゅうできますよ。
If you use this app, you can practice Japanese pronunciation.
電車の乗り換えはアプリで調べるのが便利です。
でんしゃののりかえはあぷりでしらべるのがべんりです。
It's convenient to check train transfers using an app.
最近、語学学習アプリを毎日使っています。
さいきん、ごがくがくしゅうあぷりをまいにちつかっています。
Recently, I've been using a language learning app every day.
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Quick Quiz
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