Spanish Phrase
Usa linternas, no velas.
Meaning
The sentence tells someone to use flashlights instead of candles, usually for safety or practicality. It combines a positive command with a brief negative alternative.
When to use
You would say this when you want to advise someone to choose a safer light source, for example during a power outage, a camping trip, or a fire‑prevention briefing.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Usalinternas,novelas.
Imperative (tú) form
‘Usa’ is the informal second‑person singular imperative of the verb ‘usar’, used to give a direct command.
Elliptical negative command
‘No velas’ omits the verb ‘usar’; it is understood as ‘no uses velas’, a common way to give a short negative command.
Comma for contrast
The comma separates the positive command from the negative alternative, highlighting the contrast between the two actions.
🗨In Conversation
¿Qué deberíamos encender para la cena al aire libre?
What should we light for the outdoor dinner?
Usa linternas, no velas.
Use flashlights, not candles.
✕Common Mistakes
Usa linternas, no usa velas.
The verb ‘usar’ must agree with the subject; ‘no usa velas’ means ‘he/she doesn’t use candles’, not a command.
Usa linternas no velas.
Missing the comma makes the contrast less clear and can sound like a run‑on sentence.
Usa linternas, no uses velas.
If you want a full negative command, say ‘no uses velas’ instead of the elliptical form.
↔Alternatives
Utiliza linternas, no velas.
Use flashlights, not candles.
Prefiere linternas en vez de velas.
Prefer flashlights instead of candles.
Mejor linternas que velas.
Flashlights are better than candles.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries candles are linked to religious festivals and romantic settings, but for everyday safety—especially in homes with children or during power cuts—flashlights are the preferred choice. Using the short form ‘no velas’ is very natural in spoken Spanish, but beginners should remember the full form ‘no uses velas’ for clarity.