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How to Say "acting" in Spanish

English → Spanish

actuación

nounB1general
Use 'actuación' when referring to the skill or the overall performance itself, often in theater or film.

Examples

La actuación de la bailarina fue la mejor parte del festival.

The dancer's performance was the best part of the festival.

actuando

ahk-TWAHN-doh/akˈtwan.do/

gerundA2general
Use 'actuando' to describe the ongoing action of performing a role, especially when using the present progressive tense (estar + gerund).
A person on a brightly lit stage wearing a costume, gesturing dramatically with one hand raised, illustrating performing a role.

Examples

Ella está actuando en una comedia musical ahora mismo.

She is acting in a musical comedy right now.

Estuvimos actuando bajo mucha presión durante el ensayo.

We were performing under a lot of pressure during the rehearsal.

Forming the Progressive Tense

Use 'actuando' after the verb 'estar' (to be) to show that the action is happening right now: 'Estamos actuando' (We are acting).

Using the Gerund Alone

You can sometimes use 'actuando' alone to mean 'by acting' or 'while acting': 'Actuando con valentía, salvó el día.' (Acting with bravery, he saved the day.)

Confusing Gerunds and Infinitives

Mistake: “Using 'actuar' when the action is ongoing: 'Estoy actuar en la obra.'”

Correction: Use the gerund for ongoing actions: 'Estoy actuando en la obra.' (I am acting in the play.)

interpretación

nounB2general
Use 'interpretación' when emphasizing the artistic interpretation or the specific way an actor embodies a character, often implying a more complex or critically acclaimed performance.

Examples

Su interpretación de Hamlet fue premiada por la crítica.

His performance of Hamlet was praised by critics.

Noun vs. Gerund

The most common mistake is using 'actuación' (noun) when the present progressive tense is needed, or vice-versa. Remember 'actuando' is the gerund form used with 'estar' for ongoing action, while 'actuación' refers to the performance itself or the skill.

Related Translations

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