Question 1

Why does this instruction use the infinitive usar instead of a formal command like use?

Accepted Answer

In Spanish, the infinitive is frequently used for impersonal, general instructions where the rule applies to everyone rather than addressing a specific person. You will see this a lot on workplace safety signs, recipes, and user manuals.

Question 2

Why does the English translation say "overalls" (plural) when the Spanish says el overol (singular)?

Accepted Answer

Unlike in English, where "overalls" is treated as plural, the Spanish word el overol is singular because it refers to a single piece of clothing. If you said los overoles, you would be talking about multiple pairs of overalls.

Question 3

I thought hasta meant "until". Why does it mean "even" in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

While hasta is heavily used for "until" regarding time or limits, it is also the standard word for "even" when you want to emphasize an inclusion that is surprising or extreme. Here, it emphasizes that you must wear the garment even when just cleaning the machine.

Question 4

Is it grammatically correct to put the adverb before the verb, like siempre usar?

Accepted Answer

Yes, siempre usar el overol is perfectly fine and means the exact same thing. In written rules or manuals, placing the adverb after the infinitive (usar siempre) is just a common stylistic choice that puts the main action first.

Usar siempre el overol, hasta para limpiar la máquina.

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