accionar
“accionar” means “to activate” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to activate, to operate
Also: to trigger, to put into motion
📝 In Action
Tienes que accionar el botón rojo en caso de emergencia.
A2You have to activate the red button in case of an emergency.
El conductor accionó el freno bruscamente.
B1The driver applied the brake suddenly.
La palanca sirve para accionar el mecanismo de apertura.
B2The lever is used to operate the opening mechanism.
to gesture
Also: to gesticulate
📝 In Action
El actor accionaba con elegancia durante su monólogo.
C1The actor gestured with elegance during his monologue.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "accionar" in Spanish:
to activate→to gesticulate→to gesture→to operate→to trigger→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: accionar
Question 1 of 2
Which verb would you use to describe pushing a button to start a conveyor belt?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'actio', which means action or the process of doing something. It shares the same root as the English word 'action'.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'accionar' the same as 'activar'?
They are very similar. 'Activar' is more general (like activating a phone or a credit card), while 'accionar' usually implies a physical mechanical action like pulling a lever.
Can I use 'accionar' for people?
Only if you are talking about someone gesturing with their hands while speaking. Otherwise, use 'actuar' for human behavior.