Inklingo

How to Say "use!" in Spanish

English → Spanish

usa

Verb (Conjugated Form)A1Informal
Use this form when giving an informal command to 'tú' (you, singular informal).

Examples

¡Usa el cinturón de seguridad!

Use the seatbelt!

use

/OO-seh//ˈu.se/

Verb (Conjugated Form)A1Formal
Use this form when giving a formal command to 'usted' (you, singular formal) or 'ustedes' (you, plural formal/informal).
A close-up illustration of a hand holding a red watering can and watering a small green potted plant.

Examples

Por favor, use la entrada principal.

Please, use the main entrance.

Espero que yo use el tiempo sabiamente.

I hope that I use the time wisely.

¡Use la escalera, no el ascensor!

Use the stairs, not the elevator! (Formal command)

Ella sugiere que él use un chaleco en el frío.

She suggests that he wear a vest in the cold.

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'.

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.)

Formal vs. Informal 'You'

The most common mistake is confusing the formal 'usted' command ('use') with the informal 'tú' command ('usa'). Remember to use 'usa' for friends and family, and 'use' for strangers, elders, or in professional settings.

Related Translations

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