Looking through Spanish language versions of websites it seems it is common to use the infinitive form of the verb on an action button. However, we don't use the infinitive in English and it has me wondering if a command form of the verb would be better suited for user interface elements where the user is performing an action.
Some examples of common action buttons and the translation options:
open -> abrir, abre or abra?
close -> cerrar, cierra, or cierre?
add new -> añadir, añade or añada?
delete -> eliminar, elimine, or elimina?
edit -> editar, edita, or edite?
save -> guardar, guarda, or guarde?
update -> actualizar, actualiza, or actualice?
search -> buscar, busca or buse?
So, my question is two part:
- Is the infinitive form of the verb the best choice for verbs on action buttons, and if so, why?
- If not the infinitive form, which of the command conjugations (formal or informal) of the verb is better suited for action buttons and why?