acto
“acto” means “act” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
act, deed
Also: action
📝 In Action
Fue un acto de gran valentía salvar al perro.
A2It was an act of great bravery to save the dog.
Pedimos disculpas por nuestros actos pasados.
B1We apologize for our past actions.
act
Also: segment
📝 In Action
La obra de teatro se divide en tres actos.
B1The play is divided into three acts.
Después del primer acto, habrá un intermedio.
B2After the first act, there will be an intermission.
ceremony, event
Also: function
📝 In Action
El acto de graduación será mañana por la mañana.
B2The graduation ceremony will be tomorrow morning.
Fuimos invitados al acto de toma de posesión del nuevo presidente.
C1We were invited to the inauguration ceremony of the new president.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: acto
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'acto' to mean a formal public gathering?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'acto' comes directly from the Latin noun *actus*, which meant 'a doing,' 'a performance,' or 'a driving forward.' It is rooted in the powerful Latin verb *agere*, meaning 'to do' or 'to act.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'acto' and 'acción'?
Both relate to doing something. 'Acción' is often used for the general process or faculty of acting (like 'taking action'), while 'acto' usually refers to one specific, completed deed or event (like 'an act of kindness').
How do I use the phrase 'de facto' in Spanish?
The phrase 'de facto' is used just like in English to mean 'in reality' or 'in practice,' even if it’s not official. For example: 'Es el líder de facto' (He is the de facto leader).