権利を行使する

Pair 権利 with the verb 行使する. This verb is specifically for power or authority. You cannot use it for physical objects. You don't 'exercise' a hammer or a car. You use it for abstract things like voting. It follows the standard [Noun] を [Verb] pattern. It is a bit stiff and formal. Use it when you want to sound serious. It shows you know your standing.

Use it in professional or legal settings. It is perfect for discussing work contracts. Use it when talking about voting rights. It fits well in news or politics. You might use it regarding paid leave. If a company denies your break, use this. It tells them you know the rules. It is also used in court dramas. Use it when claiming a specific privilege. It sounds very confident and clear.

Do not use this for small favors. Don't say it when asking for fries. 'I exercise my right to a chip' sounds weird. Unless you are being very sarcastic! Avoid it in casual, soft conversations. It can sound a bit aggressive or cold. Don't use it for physical exercise. That is 運動 (undō), not 行使 (kōshi). It is too heavy for daily chores. Keep it for official business only.

Japan values social harmony, or wa. Because of this, 'exercising rights' can seem confrontational. In the past, people avoided this phrase. They preferred to negotiate or stay quiet. But times are changing in Japan now. Younger generations use it for work-life balance. It is a tool for self-protection. It represents a shift toward individual rights. It is a very modern, legalistic expression.

投票権を行使する means to exercise voting rights. 有給休暇の権利を行使する is for paid leave. You can also say 行使できる. This means 'to be able to exercise.' 権利の行使 is the noun version. It means 'the exercise of rights.' You will see this on official forms. Sometimes people say 権利を使う for casualness. But 行使 is much more professional.