What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of puedo (I can/am able), usar (to use) and esto (this).
Which one should you use?
Use esto if the object is unidentified or if you are referring to a general situation. If you are referring to a specific noun, use the masculine este (as in este libro – this book) or the feminine esta (as in esta silla – this chair).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more polite and indirect request, you can use the conditional form ¿podría usar esto? (Could I use this?). For a formal way to ask 'Would it be possible to use this?', use ¿Sería posible usar esto?
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb poder is conjugated in the first-person singular present indicative (puedo) to express the speaker's ability or permission. The word esto is a neuter demonstrative pronoun used to refer to an unspecified object or an abstract concept.
Did you know?
- While usar is the most common translation for 'to use', if you are specifically asking to borrow an item, a native speaker might say ¿Te puedo coger esto? in certain countries like Spain. However, be careful, as this specific verb can have much more vulgar connotations in many Latin American countries.
- The pronoun esto is one of the few remaining neuter words in Spanish, a language that otherwise strictly divides nouns into masculine and feminine.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, asking ¿puedo usar esto? for a shared household item may be seen as overly formal, as family members often just ask me prestas esto?, meaning 'will you lend me this?'
Examples in context
- ¿Puedo usar esto, por favor?Can I use this, please?
- ¿Puedo usar esto?Can I use this?
- ¿Me dejas usar esto?Will you let me use this?
- ¿Puedo usar estos lápices para hacer un dibujo?Can I use these pencils to draw?
- ¿puedo usar esto para cortar el papel?Can I use this to cut the paper?
- Si no te importa, ¿puedo usar esto?If you don't mind, can I use this?
Example conversation
Maria sees a pen on Alejandro's desk.
- MaríaAlejandro, ¿puedo usar esto?Alejandro, can I use this?
- AlejandroSí, María, adelante.Yes, Maria, go ahead.
- MaríaMuchas gracias.Thank you very much.
- AlejandroDe nada.You're welcome.
