The Present Tense of Utilizar is used to describe actions happening in the present moment or habitual actions. For example, Utilizo la computadora para trabajar. (I use the computer to work.)

Utilizar is a regular -ar verb, so its conjugations in the present tense follow the typical pattern for this verb type.

Conjugations

Conjugations of Utilizar (to use) in the Present Tense tense (Latin American Spanish):

Utilizar generally means to use or employ something, but has several different meanings in the Present Tense, some of which might surprise you.

To use or employ: For example, Yo utilizo una computadora para trabajar (I use a computer to work).

To take advantage of: For example, Ellos utilizan cada oportunidad para viajar (They take advantage of every opportunity to travel).

To exploit or manipulate (negative connotation): For example, Él utiliza a sus amigos para obtener favores (He exploits his friends to get favors).

To consume or ingest (colloquial): For example, Nosotros utilizamos drogas en la fiesta (We used drugs at the party).

To have sex with (vulgar slang): For example, Ellos utilizan a esa chica cada fin de semana (They use that girl every weekend).

Examples

Examples of Utilizar in the Present Tense

Yo utilizo una aplicación para practicar mi español. (I use an app to practice my Spanish.)

¿Utilizas el corrector ortográfico cuando escribes? (Do you use the spell checker when you write?)

Mi hermana utiliza las redes sociales para mantenerse en contacto con sus amigos. (My sister uses social media to stay in touch with her friends.)

Utilizamos mapas cuando viajamos a nuevos lugares. (We use maps when we travel to new places.)

Ellos utilizan la última tecnología en su oficina. (They use the latest technology in their office.)

En la clase de cocina, utilizamos ingredientes frescos de la región. (In the cooking class, we use fresh ingredients from the region.)

¿Qué aplicación utilizas para editar fotos? (What app do you use to edit photos?)

Los artistas utilizan diferentes técnicas para crear sus obras. (Artists use different techniques to create their works.)

En mi trabajo, utilizo programas de diseño gráfico. (At my job, I use graphic design programs.)

¿Utilizan ustedes productos ecológicos en su hogar? (Do you use eco-friendly products in your home?)

Los jóvenes utilizan mucho la jerga en su lenguaje cotidiano. (Young people use a lot of slang in their everyday language.)

Cuando viajo, utilizo una mochila ligera para llevar lo esencial. (When I travel, I use a light backpack to carry the essentials.)

En la clase de yoga, utilizamos colchonetas y bloques para las posturas. (In the yoga class, we use mats and blocks for the poses.)

Mi abuela utiliza remedios caseros para tratar dolencias menores. (My grandmother uses home remedies to treat minor ailments.)

Los atletas utilizan suplementos para mejorar su rendimiento. (Athletes use supplements to improve their performance.)

Conjugations with English Translations

Conjugations of Utilizar (to use) in the Present Tense tense (Latin American Spanish) with English Translations:

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

Synonyms

The Present tense is also known as the Simple Present, Present Simple, Present Tense, or Present Indicative in English, and as Presente de Indicativo, Presente Simple, Tiempo Presente, or Indicativo Presente in Spanish.