使(しようきんし)

しようきんし
noun
prohibited for use; use forbidden
1. prohibited for use; use forbidden; out of service
Indicates that something is officially forbidden from being used. Commonly seen on signs for facilities, equipment, and areas that are off-limits.
このトイレは使用禁止(しようきんし)です。
This restroom is out of service.
携帯電話(けいたいでんわ)使用禁止(しようきんし)場所(ばしょ)
An area where mobile phone use is prohibited.
安全上(あんぜんじょう)理由(りゆう)から、この遊具(ゆうぐ)当面(とうめん)使用禁止(しようきんし)となります。
For safety reasons, this playground equipment will be prohibited from use for the time being.

A compound of 使用(しよう) (use) and 禁止(きんし) (prohibition). Functions as a no-adjective and is extremely common on signs and notices in public spaces.

USAGE:
One of the most frequently encountered sign phrases in Japan, posted on restrooms, elevators, equipment, swimming pools, and more. Often stands alone as a sign without any additional text. Can indicate either a permanent prohibition or a temporary closure.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 使用禁止(しようきんし)()(がみ) — a sign reading "use prohibited"
  • 使用禁止(しようきんし)となる — to become prohibited for use
  • 使用禁止(しようきんし)区域(くいき) — prohibited area

SIMILAR PATTERNS:

  • 立入禁止(たちいりきんし) — no entry; keep out
  • 撮影禁止(さつえいきんし) — no photography
  • 駐車禁止(ちゅうしゃきんし) — no parking
  • 飲食禁止(いんしょくきんし) — no eating or drinking