Spanish Conversation · Level 18
90 words
Spanish word
emplear
Pronunciation
IPA/empleˈaɾ/
Meaning
- verbuse
Example
¿Puedo emplear tu bolígrafo?
Can I use your pen?
More examples
Ella suele emplear tiempo en practicar la pronunciación cada día.
She usually spends time practicing pronunciation every day.
Core concept
Applying a tool or resource to a task.
Common phrases
emplear tiempo en estudiar
spend time studying
emplear tiempo en practicar
spend time practicing
Similar words
usar: Use an object or tool in a simple, direct, everyday way.
utilizar: Put a tool or method to practical use, adapting it to the situation.
aprovechar: Make productive use of time or an opportunity instead of wasting it.
aplicar: Put knowledge, rules, or a method into practice in a real situation.
Definition in Spanish
Utilizar algo para lograr un propósito; gastar o dedicar tiempo, dinero o recursos; también emplear a una persona en un trabajo.
Word origin
Comes from Old French employer and ultimately from Latin plicare 'to fold', giving a sense of applying or putting something to work.
Usage tips
- In casual speech usar often feels more natural for 'use', and emplear also commonly carries 'hire' when the object is a person.