When is it used to see and have

In Spanish there are many homophones, that is, they are pronounced the same despite writing differently and having different meanings . It is for this reason that we can be doubtful when writing some terms correctly and it is necessary to consult which is the correct form.

One of the most problematic cases is to know when to use to see and to have, in which many people are wrong or hesitant to use both expressions. Therefore, in the following article we want to explain in detail when it is used to see and have, putting examples and explaining tricks so you never doubt again.

When is it used to see

To know when it is used to see and have first to learn the differences between both, to know the meaning and use of each one so that, understanding it, we can use it correctly.

In the case of to see is a sequence constituted by the preposition a and the infinitive of the verb to see . That is why you write to see and not aver or aber, because they are two different words that are written separately. But when is it used to watch? The truth is that we can use it on different occasions and for different uses:

It is usually used to express interest or expectation for something, which is why it is usually accompanied by an indirect interrogative sentence, to which it emphasizes:

"Let's see when we meet."

If we use it as an interrogation it serves to demand our interlocutor to let us check, use or see something:

"With my new mobile phone I can make very good pictures."

It can be used to call the attention of the interlocutor before asking, asking or ordering something:

"Let's see, what did I tell you?"
"Let's see, tell me what happened."

In some cases it can be used as a synonym of clear or naturally :

Will you go for a walk? -Let's see! With the sun that makes it would be a crime to stay at home.

As an introduction to a sentence that begins with the conjunction yes, expressing expectation, interest, fear or a challenge:

"Let's see if you study more"
"Let's see if we lose the game in the end"
"Let's see if you get there in time for the movie."

A trick that can be used to know when it is used to see and have is that, in many cases, to see can be replaced by see :

"To see what wines they have on the menu" is the same as "Let's see what wines they have on the menu".

When to use

On the other hand we have to have; neither aber nor haver, a word that can have different functions:

To have as a verb

Haber is used as an auxiliary verb, because followed by a participle form infinitive compounds:

Well have studied more.
It must have been him.
I should have gone out to look for him.

We can also use it as an impersonal infinitive, which refers to the presence of what the noun designates:

With the days that I have missed class there must be many duties. (Having denoted the existence of duties)
Everything indicates that the killer may have been in this room