1.
to embezzle; to misappropriate
to use money or funds entrusted to one for personal purposes; to misuse funds
会社の金を使い込んだ。
He embezzled the company's money.
遺産を使い込んでしまった。
He squandered the inheritance.
2.
to become skilled at using; to break in
to use something repeatedly until it becomes familiar and comfortable, or until one becomes proficient with it
この道具は使い込むほど味が出る。
This tool develops more character the more you use it.
使い込まれた革の財布は独特の風合いがある。
A well-used leather wallet has a unique patina.
使い込む has two distinct meanings.
SENSE 1 - EMBEZZLEMENT:
- Using funds that belong to others for personal purposes
- Often appears in news about financial crimes
- Related to 横領 (embezzlement)
SENSE 2 - WEARING IN:
- Using something until it becomes comfortable or shows character
- Positive connotation: appreciation for well-used items
- Common with leather goods, tools, musical instruments
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
Sense 1:
- 公金を使い込む (to embezzle public funds)
- 会社の金を使い込む (to embezzle company money)
Sense 2:
- 使い込まれた～ (well-used ~)
- 使い込むほど (the more you use it)
TRANSITIVITY:
Transitive verb. Takes を for money/items.
RELATED TERMS:
- 使い果たす (to use up completely)
- 使い慣れる (to become accustomed to using)
REGISTER: Neutral. Common in both news and everyday contexts.