vs
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"Usar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to use", and "asistir" is an intransitive verb which is often translated as "to attend". Learn more about the difference between "usar" and "asistir" below.
usar(
oo
-
sahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to utilize)
a. to use
Puedes usar mi teléfono viejo si no logras encontrar el tuyo.You can use my old phone if you don't manage to find yours.
2. (to have on)
a. to wear
Voy a usar mi chaqueta nueva cuando haga frío.I'm going to wear my new jacket when it gets cold.
usarse
A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
a. to be worn
En verano se vuelven a usar los vestidos y las faldas.In summer, dresses and skirts are worn again.
b. to be in fashion
Se usaban los overoles en los ochenta y los noventa.Overalls were in fashion in the eighties and nineties.
asistir(
ah
-
sees
-
teer
)An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
2. (to observe)
a. to witness
Estamos asistiendo al comienzo de una nueva era.We are witnessing the beginning of a new era.
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
3. (to help)
a. to attend to
La enfermera me asistió porque era una urgencia.The nurse attended to me because it was an emergency.
