usaba
“usaba” means “I used to use” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
I used to use, he/she/it was using, you (formal) used
Also: I utilized
📝 In Action
Yo usaba esa bicicleta todos los días para ir al trabajo.
A1I used to use that bicycle every day to go to work.
Ella usaba una computadora muy vieja cuando la conocí.
A2She was using a very old computer when I met her.
Usted usaba el cajón de la izquierda para guardar los documentos.
B1You (formal) used the left drawer to keep the documents.
I used to wear, he/she was wearing
Also: I was accustomed to wearing
📝 In Action
Mi abuela siempre usaba un pañuelo de seda en la cabeza.
A2My grandmother always wore a silk scarf on her head.
Él usaba gafas, pero ahora usa lentes de contacto.
B1He used to wear glasses, but now he wears contact lenses.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "usaba" in Spanish:
i utilized→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: usaba
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'usaba' to describe a past habit?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
"Usaba" comes from the verb 'usar,' which traces back to the Latin verb *ūtī* (to use or to employ). This word has remained remarkably consistent in meaning throughout its history.
First recorded: 13th century (in the form of 'usar')
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'usaba' mean 'I used to' or 'he/she used to'?
It can mean either! 'Usaba' is the imperfect form for 'yo' (I), 'él' (he), 'ella' (she), and 'usted' (you formal). You must look at the subject of the sentence to know who is doing the action.
How is 'usaba' different from 'usé'?
'Usaba' (imperfect) describes actions that were ongoing, repeated, or habitual in the past (e.g., 'I used to use'). 'Usé' (preterite) describes a single action that was completed at a specific point in the past (e.g., 'I used [it] once').