The Imperative Mood (Affirmative Commands) of Utilizar is used to give direct orders or instructions to use something, for example: Utiliza la computadora para hacer tu tarea. (Use the computer to do your homework.)

This verb follows the -zar to -ce spelling-changing conjugation pattern, where the z changes to c before the endings are added.

Conjugations

Conjugations of Utilizar (to use) in the Imperative Mood (Affirmative Commands) tense (Latin American Spanish):

Utilizar generally means “to use” or “to utilize”, but has several different meanings in the Imperative Mood (Affirmative Commands), some of which might surprise you.

Basic command: This is the most common usage, instructing someone to use or employ something, for example, Utiliza la llave para abrir la puerta. (Use the key to open the door.)

Exploiting or taking advantage: It can mean to exploit or take advantage of a situation or person in an unethical way, for example, Utiliza a tu hermano para que te haga los deberes. (Take advantage of your brother to get him to do your homework.)

Consuming or ingesting: In some contexts, it can refer to consuming or ingesting something, often drugs or alcohol, for example, Utiliza esta pastilla para relajarte. (Take this pill to relax.) This usage is considered slang.

Sexual innuendo: In vulgar slang, it can carry a sexual connotation, often objectifying someone, for example, Utilízala bien esta noche. (Use her well tonight.) This usage is extremely rude and demeaning.

Examples

Examples of Utilizar in the Imperative Mood (Affirmative Commands)

¡Utiliza el mapa para encontrar la ruta más rápida! (Use the map to find the fastest route!)

Por favor, utilice los audífonos para escuchar la grabación. (Please use the headphones to listen to the recording.)

Mamá, utilicemos ingredientes frescos para preparar la cena. (Mom, let’s use fresh ingredients to prepare dinner.)

Amigos, utilicen las redes sociales con responsabilidad. (Friends, use social media responsibly.)

Oye, utiliza esa aplicación para encontrar los mejores lugares para comer. (Hey, use that app to find the best places to eat.)

En la reunión, utilice diapositivas claras para presentar su proyecto. (In the meeting, use clear slides to present your project.)

Chicos, utilicemos el transporte público para reducir nuestra huella de carbono. (Guys, let’s use public transportation to reduce our carbon footprint.)

Para mantenerse en forma, utilicen las instalaciones del gimnasio regularmente. (To stay in shape, use the gym facilities regularly.)

¿Puedes utilizar esa aplicación para traducir este documento? (Can you use that app to translate this document?)

En la clase de cocina, utilice los utensilios adecuados para cada tarea. (In the cooking class, use the appropriate utensils for each task.)

Antes de viajar, utilicemos una guía turística para planificar nuestro itinerario. (Before traveling, let’s use a travel guide to plan our itinerary.)

Jóvenes, utilicen su tiempo libre para aprender nuevas habilidades. (Young people, use your free time to learn new skills.)

Para ahorrar energía, utiliza bombillas LED en tu hogar. (To save energy, use LED bulbs in your home.)

En la fiesta, utilice los vasos reutilizables para reducir los desechos. (At the party, use reusable cups to reduce waste.)

Cuando estudies, utilicemos técnicas de memorización efectivas. (When you study, let’s use effective memorization techniques.)

Conjugations with English Translations

Conjugations of Utilizar (to use) in the Imperative Mood (Affirmative Commands) tense (Latin American Spanish) with English Translations:

This post covers Latin American Spanish. For Castilian Spanish, click here

Synonyms

The Imperative mood is also known as the Command Form, Affirmative Command Mood, or Direct Command Form in English, and as Modo Imperativo, Imperativo Afirmativo, Mandatos Afirmativos, or Forma de Mandato in Spanish.