Inklingo

How to Say "crackdown" in Spanish

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operativo

/oh-peh-rah-TEE-boh//opeɾaˈtiβo/

nounB2general
Use 'operativo' when referring to a planned police or military operation specifically targeting illegal activities or to apprehend suspects.
A group of rescue workers in orange vests standing together around a map on a table.

Examples

El operativo policial detuvo a los sospechosos de robo.

The police crackdown arrested the robbery suspects.

El operativo policial detuvo a los sospechosos.

The police operation arrested the suspects.

Hubo un gran operativo de limpieza tras el concierto.

There was a massive cleaning effort after the concert.

El gobierno lanzó un operativo de rescate en la montaña.

The government launched a rescue operation in the mountains.

Always Masculine

When used as a noun meaning 'an operation/effort,' it is always masculine: 'el operativo' or 'un operativo'.

Operation vs. Operativo

Mistake: “Don't use 'operativo' for math or medical surgeries.”

Correction: Use 'operación' for '2+2' or 'heart surgery'. Use 'operativo' for a coordinated group action like a search party.

represión

nounB2general
Use 'represión' when the crackdown involves forceful suppression of dissent, protests, or public gatherings, often implying a harsh or severe response.

Examples

La represión policial detuvo la manifestación violentamente.

The police crackdown violently stopped the protest.

Operativo vs. Represión

Learners often confuse 'operativo' and 'represión' by using 'operativo' for any forceful action. Remember that 'operativo' focuses on a targeted operation against crime, while 'represión' emphasizes the suppression of people or protests.

Related Translations

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