use
OO-seh
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Espero que yo use el tiempo sabiamente.
B1I hope that I use the time wisely.
¡Use la escalera, no el ascensor!
A2Use the stairs, not the elevator! (Formal command)
Ella sugiere que él use un chaleco en el frío.
B1She suggests that he wear a vest in the cold.
No creo que usted use ese vocabulario.
A2I don't think you (formal) use that vocabulary.
💡 Grammar Points
A Command Form
When giving a polite, formal command to one person (usted), use 'use'. Example: 'Use este bolígrafo.' (Use this pen.)
The Subjunctive 'Mood'
'Use' is also the special verb form (subjunctive) used after certain phrases expressing wishes, doubts, or requests, often for 'yo,' 'él,' 'ella,' and 'usted'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Commands
Mistake: "Using 'usa' for a formal command (Usted usa el mapa)."
Correction: Use 'use' for formal commands: 'Usted use el mapa.' ('Usa' is only for informal 'tú' commands.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Regular AR Verb
Since 'usar' is a regular '-ar' verb, its subjunctive forms ('use', 'uses', etc.) are very predictable and follow the pattern of the '-er' and '-ir' verbs.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: use
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'use' as a formal command?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'use' pronounced the same as the English word 'use'?
No. In Spanish, 'use' is pronounced with a hard 'oo' sound (like in 'food') followed by 'seh.' The 's' is always sharp, never like a 'z' as in the English word.
How do I know if 'use' means 'I use' or 'he/she uses'?
Since 'use' is the same for 'yo' (I), 'él/ella' (he/she), and 'usted' (you formal) in the present subjunctive, you usually need the pronoun (yo, él, ella, usted) or the surrounding context to know who is doing the action.