Spanish Phrase
¿Puedo usar una computadora y una impresora ahí?
Meaning
A polite request asking whether the speaker may use a computer and a printer at the indicated location. It combines a permission‑seeking verb (poder) with the infinitive ‘usar’ and lists two devices.
When to use
Use this sentence in libraries, coworking spaces, classrooms, or any public area where computers and printers are available but may require staff approval. It works both in formal and semi‑formal contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Puedousarunacomputadorayunaimpresoraahí?
Puedo (present of poder)
First‑person singular present of poder, used to ask for permission or express ability.
usar (infinitive)
The verb ‘to use’ follows poder in its infinitive form.
una (indefinite article)
Feminine singular article that matches both ‘computadora’ and ‘impresora’.
computadora / impresora (nouns)
Both are feminine nouns; note the stress on the penultimate syllable.
y (conjunction)
Simple conjunction meaning ‘and’ that links two objects.
ahí (adverb of place)
Points to a location that is not the speaker’s immediate vicinity; often interchangeable with ‘aquí’ when the speaker is near the place.
🗨In Conversation
¿Puedo usar una computadora y una impresora ahí?
Can I use a computer and a printer there?
Sí, claro. Solo recuerde apagar la computadora cuando termine.
Yes, of course. Just remember to turn off the computer when you’re done.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Puedes usar una computadora y una impresora ahí?
‘Puedes’ is second‑person; the speaker must use ‘puedo’ to refer to themselves.
¿Puedo usar una computadora y una impresora en ahí?
‘En’ means ‘in/on’; when pointing to a specific spot, ‘ahí’ or ‘aquí’ is more natural.
¿Puedo usar un computador y una impresora ahí?
In most Latin American countries the word is ‘computadora’; ‘computador’ is used mainly in Spain.
↔Alternatives
¿Me permite usar una computadora y una impresora aquí?
May I use a computer and a printer here?
¿Puedo emplear una computadora y una impresora en este lugar?
Can I employ a computer and a printer in this place?
¿Sería posible usar una computadora y una impresora en esa sala?
Would it be possible to use a computer and a printer in that room?
Cultural Tip
In most Spanish‑speaking countries, asking permission with ‘¿Puedo…?’ is considered courteous. Adding ‘por favor’ or a brief thank you after the answer (e.g., ‘Muchas gracias’) improves the politeness level. In some regions, ‘ahí’ can feel a bit vague; if you’re pointing to a specific room, you might say ‘en la sala de estudio’ instead.