Using it for Consuming

Think of 'usar' as needing a partner. You always use *something*. For example, 'Yo uso el martillo' (I use the hammer). The hammer is the thing receiving the action.

Always Use *Something*

'Usar' is your everyday, go-to word. 'Utilizar' means the same thing but sounds more formal or technical, like something you'd see in an instruction manual.

'Utilizar' is a Bit Fancier

Extremely common. This is the most basic and frequent meaning you'll encounter.

'Usar' and 'llevar' both mean 'to wear' and are often interchangeable. 'Llevar' can feel a bit more common in everyday speech in many places (especially Spain), but 'usar' is perfectly correct and understood everywhere.

Usar vs. Llevar

Just as common as 'to use'. This is the standard way to talk about wearing clothes or accessories.

When you see 'se usa' or 'se usan', the 'se' works like saying 'it is' or 'they are' in English. 'Se usa' means 'It is customary' or 'It is in fashion'. The focus is on the trend or custom, not on who is doing it.

The 'It Is Done' Feeling

Match the verb to the trend. If the thing in fashion is singular, use 'se usa' (Se usa este color). If it's plural, use 'se usan' (Se usan los pantalones anchos).

Singular or Plural?

Less common, but important for sounding more natural at higher levels.

Learn the complete meaning of the Spanish verb 'usar'. See full conjugations, examples, and usage for 'to use' an object, 'to wear' clothing, and 'to be in fashion'.

usar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

preterite

imperfect

future

conditional

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

affirmative

negative

Practice Conjugations