usar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Verb

Phonetic Transcription

• /uˈsaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To use
• To employ
• To make use of

Meaning and Context

"Usar" is a transitive verb meaning "to use" or "to employ." It can refer to the action of utilizing objects, services, or concepts. The word is broadly used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a common choice in everyday conversation as well as in written language. The frequency of use is high, as it appears in various contexts, from casual language to technical discourse in fields such as economics and law.

Example Sentences

1. El profesor nos enseñó cómo usar el software nuevo.

2. (The teacher showed us how to use the new software.)

3. Es importante usar la información de manera responsable.

4. (It is important to use the information responsibly.)

5. Voy a usar un paraguas porque está lloviendo.

6. (I am going to use an umbrella because it is raining.)

Idiomatic Expressions

"Usar" is also part of several idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Some of these expressions can convey broader meanings or cultural nuances:

1. Usar y tirar
2. (Use and throw away) - Refers to the practice of using something briefly and then discarding it, often used concerning consumer goods.
3. No deberíamos adoptar una mentalidad de usar y tirar para el medio ambiente.

4. (We should not adopt a use-and-throw mentality for the environment.)

5. Usar la cabeza

6. (Use your head) - This means to think smartly or make wise decisions.
7. Antes de tomar una decisión, debes usar la cabeza.

8. (Before making a decision, you should use your head.)

9. Hacer uso de

10. (Make use of) - This expression is often used interchangeably with "usar," emphasizing the act of utilizing something effectively.
11. Debemos hacer uso de todos los recursos disponibles.

12. (We must make use of all available resources.)

13. No usar de razón

14. (Not to use reason) - This phrase is often used to indicate someone is not thinking rationally.
15. A veces parece que no usan de razón cuando discuten.

16. (Sometimes it seems like they don't use reason when they argue.)

17. Usar lo que hay

18. (Use what’s available) - Suggests making the best of the resources you currently have.
19. En tiempos difíciles, debemos aprender a usar lo que hay.
20. (In difficult times, we must learn to use what’s available.)

Etymology

The verb "usar" comes from the Latin word "ūsare," which means "to use." It has retained a similar spelling and meaning as it evolved into modern Spanish.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Emplear (to employ)
• Utilizar (to utilize)

• Aprovechar (to take advantage of)

• Antonyms:

• Descartar (to discard)
• Abandonar (to abandon)
• Ignorar (to ignore)

In summary, "usar" is a versatile verb in Spanish that is widely utilized across various domains and contexts, making it an essential part of both everyday language and specific professional discussions.