usar la computadora
/usaɾ la komputadoɾa/from spelling rules
To use the computer in Spanish is usar la computadora.
The phrase means to operate a computer to perform tasks or access information.
Which one should you use?
The phrase usar la computadora uses the feminine noun computadora, but in some Latin American regions, you may see the masculine form usar el computador.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In most of Latin America, computadora is the standard term. However, in Spain, the word ordenador is used instead, making the phrase usar el ordenador.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the definite article la because computadora is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/usaɾ la komputadoɾa/
Did you know?
- While English speakers almost always use the verb 'to use', many Spanish speakers prefer the verb manejar when talking about operating a computer. This sounds more like 'to handle' or 'to drive' a machine.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, if you are talking about using a computer to browse the internet, you might hear people say navegar, which literally means 'to sail' or 'to navigate'.
- In Spain, the word ordenador is used instead of computadora because the machine is viewed as something that puts things in order, rather than something that calculates.
Examples in context
- Necesito utilizar la computadora para completar este informe.I need to use the computer to complete this report.
- El profesor utiliza el ordenador para impartir las clases en línea.The teacher uses the computer to teach online.
- Vamos a jugar en la compu después de la cena.Let's play on the computer after dinner.
- ¿Puedes usar la compu para buscar esa información?Can you use the computer to search for that information?
- Necesito usar la computadora para trabajar.I need to use the computer to work.
- ¿Puedo usar la computadora un momento?Can I use the computer for a moment?
- Ella no sabe usar la computadora.She does not know how to use the computer.
Example conversation
Elena is asking Mateo for help with her homework.
- ElenaMateo, ¿puedes enseñarme a usar la computadora?Mateo, can you teach me how to use the computer?
- MateoClaro, Elena, es muy fácil.Of course, Elena, it is very easy.
- ElenaGracias, quiero usar la computadora para mi tarea.Thanks, I want to use the computer for my homework.
- MateoNo hay problema, yo te ayudo.No problem, I will help you.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
