funcionando
foon-syoh-NAHN-doh
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
El ascensor no está funcionando. Usa las escaleras.
A2The elevator is not working. Use the stairs.
Mi teléfono ha estado funcionando muy lento desde la actualización.
B1My phone has been functioning very slowly since the update.
La nueva estrategia está funcionando mejor de lo que esperábamos.
B2The new strategy is working better than we expected.
💡 Grammar Points
The Progressive Action
The '-ando' ending is the Spanish way of saying that an action is currently happening or in progress, similar to the '-ing' in English. This form is called the gerund.
Using 'Estar'
To say something 'is working' right now, you must combine 'funcionando' with a form of the verb 'estar' (to be), such as 'está funcionando' or 'estaban funcionando'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'Ser' Instead of 'Estar'
Mistake: "El sistema es funcionando."
Correction: El sistema está funcionando. Remember, 'estar' is used for temporary states or ongoing actions, while 'ser' is for permanent qualities.
⭐ Usage Tips
Check the Status
Use '¿Está funcionando?' to quickly ask if a device, system, or plan is currently operational. It's one of the most practical questions for travelers.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: funcionando
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'funcionando' to describe an ongoing action?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use 'funcionando' instead of just 'funciona'?
Use 'funcionando' (with 'estar') when you want to emphasize that the action is happening *right now* or continuously over a period of time (e.g., 'It is working now'). Use 'funciona' (simple present tense) for facts or habitual actions (e.g., 'It usually works well').
Can I use 'funcionando' without 'estar'?
Yes, but it's less common. When used alone or with other verbs (like *seguir*), 'funcionando' acts like an adverb, describing how an action is performed. Example: 'Sigue funcionando a pesar de la lluvia' (It keeps working despite the rain).