úsalo
/usalo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "use it" is translated into Spanish as úsalo.
This phrase is used as an instruction to employ a specific object or tool for a purpose.
What does it mean word for word?
The word úsalo consists of the imperative verb usa (use) and the direct object pronoun lo (it, masculine).
Which one should you use?
While úsalo is the informal way to say "use it", you can also say Utilízalo (informal) or the more formal Empléelo, which derives from the verb emplear. Additionally, Haz uso de ello is a way to say "make use of it".
How does it change in a sentence?
If the object being used is a feminine noun, the pronoun changes from 'lo' to úsala. If the object being used is plural and masculine, the pronoun changes to úsalos.
How do you pronounce it?
/usalo/
Did you know?
- The word usar is a cognate of the English word 'use', but it also shares a root with 'usury', the practice of lending money at high interest rates.
- The verb usar can be used to describe wearing clothes, such as uso una camisa, whereas in some regions llevar is preferred to distinguish between 'utilizing' a tool and 'wearing' an outfit.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, using emplear can refer specifically to hiring a person rather than using a tool, potentially creating a humorous misunderstanding.
Examples in context
- Úsalo o piérdelo.Use it or lose it.This sentence shows the phrase in the context of the idiom "Use it or lose it.".Tatoeba #1508793 by marcelostockle, translation #810538 by CM
- Úsalo con cuidado.Use it with caution.This sentence demonstrates how to use the phrase to instruct someone to use something with caution.Tatoeba #3352074 by cueyayotl, translation #3380361 by corvard
- Úsalo como quieras.Use it as you like.This sentence shows how to tell someone to use something in whatever way they prefer.Tatoeba #5950118 by arh, translation #12877248 by rul
- Por favor, utilícelo para completar el informe.Please use it to complete the report.
- Sr. Pérez, por favor, úselo para resolver el problema.Mr. Pérez, please use it to solve the problem.
- Amigo, úsalo para arreglar el problema en tu computadora.Friend, use it to fix the problem on your computer.
- Hermanita, utilízalo para hacer tu tarea más rápido.Little sister, use it to do your homework faster.
- Haz uso de ello para mejorar tus habilidades lingüísticas.Make use of it to improve your language skills.
- Puedes emplear esto para solucionar el enigma.You can use this to solve the riddle.
Example conversation
Elena is holding a new tool and Javier gives her instructions.
- JavierEs un martillo muy bueno.It is a very good hammer.
- Elena¿Quieres que lo guarde?Do you want me to put it away?
- JavierNo, úsalo para la mesa.No, use it for the table.
- ElenaEstá bien, lo haré.Okay, I will do it.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
