usar
/uˈsaɾ/
To use in Spanish is usar.
Usar is used to describe employing an object or a tool for a specific purpose. In many Spanish-speaking regions, it is also commonly used to mean 'to wear' when referring to clothing or accessories, such as usar gafas (to wear glasses).
Which one should you use?
While usar is the standard word for 'to use', utilizar is a formal synonym often used when the speaker wants to emphasize the utility or the efficient application of a resource. Additionally, emplear serves as a more formal alternative, frequently found in professional or technical contexts such as employing a specific method or tool.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the words emplear, utilizar and usar are used interchangeably to mean 'to use'. In Mexico, locals predominantly use utilizar and usar to convey this sense.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun form of the verb usar is uso, which refers to the act of using something or the use itself.
How do you pronounce it?
/uˈsaɾ/
Did you know?
- In a formal job context, if you want to say you are 'using' a person's talents, you would use emplear rather than usar, as the latter can sound dehumanizing.
- While usar means 'to wear', Spanish speakers often use the verb llevar (to carry) to describe wearing clothes or accessories in a way that implies they are already on the person.
- While 'to use' is often a simple action, the noun uso can also refer to a 'custom' or a 'habit' in certain contexts, such as el uso y la costumbre.
Examples in context
- Iba a usar eso.I was going to use that.This sentence demonstrates the use of usar in a past continuous context.Tatoeba #2040999 by wallebot, translation #1887921 by CK
- Yo sé usar esto.I know how to use this.This sentence shows how to express ability using usar.Tatoeba #4398213 by pchamorro, translation #2375952 by CK
- ¿Vas a usar eso?Are you going to use that?This sentence uses usar in a question about future intent.Tatoeba #4487481 by cueyayotl, translation #4487400 by CK
- Por favor, utiliza el lápiz para escribir.Please use the pencil to write.
- Debemos emplear esta técnica para obtener resultados precisos.We must use this technique to achieve accurate results.
- Puedes usar mi teléfono para llamar.You can use my phone to make a call.
- ¿Puedo utilizar tu bici por un momento?Can I use your bike for a while?
- 147 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
In a kitchen while cooking a meal.
- Lucía¿Vas a usar el cuchillo nuevo?Are you going to use the new knife?
- JavierSí, quiero usarlo para cortar el pan.Yes, I want to use it to cut the bread.
- LucíaTen cuidado, es muy afilado.Be careful, it is very sharp.
- JavierNo te preocupes, Lucía.Don't worry, Lucía.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry usar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
