Inklingo

How to Say "functions" in Spanish

English → Spanish

funcione

foo-see-OH-neh (Spain) / foo-nsee-OH-neh (Latin America)/funˈθjo.ne/ (Spain) /funˈsjo.ne/ (Latin America)

Verb (Conjugated Form)A2formal
Use this when referring to the correct operation or working of a system, machine, or process, often in a formal context.
A brightly colored, simple storybook illustration of a small, cheerful mechanical toy robot successfully winding a spool of thread, demonstrating successful operation.

Examples

Es necesario que el sistema funcione correctamente.

It is necessary that the system works correctly.

Dudo que esta batería funcione bien en el frío.

I doubt that this battery works well in the cold.

¡Que funcione la cafetera!

I hope the coffee machine works!

The Subjunctive Mood

This 'funcione' form is used when the verb expresses uncertainty, emotion, desire, or necessity. English often uses 'that it works' or 'for it to work'.

Formal Command

When giving a polite, formal command to one person ('usted'), 'funcione' is the affirmative command: '¡Funcione ahora!' (Work now!).

Mixing Indicative and Subjunctive

Mistake: “Pienso que el programa funciona.”

Correction: Pienso que el programa funcione. (If you express doubt or desire, you need the 'funcione' form.)

actúa

VerbA1general
Use this to describe how a person, system, or object behaves or operates in a particular situation.

Examples

El presidente actúa con mucha cautela en esta crisis.

The president acts with great caution in this crisis.

responde

rreh-SPOHN-dehresˈpon.de

Verb (conjugated)B1general
Use this to talk about how a machine or vehicle performs or reacts, especially in terms of its responsiveness.
A boy stands outdoors, looking surprised and delighted as a small, colorful butterfly gently lands on his outstretched finger.

Examples

El coche responde muy bien al acelerar en la autopista.

The car responds very well when accelerating on the highway.

El paciente no responde a los medicamentos.

The patient is not reacting to the medications.

Responding to Stimuli

When talking about how a non-human thing (like a medicine, machine, or environment) handles a situation, 'responde' means it reacts or performs in a certain way.

papeles

pah-PEH-lehspaˈpeles

NounB2general
Use this when referring to the roles, duties, or responsibilities someone has, particularly in a professional or theatrical context.
Two simple theatrical masks, one smiling and one frowning, resting side by side on a wooden stage floor, symbolizing different roles.

Examples

Ella interpretó varios papeles en la obra de teatro.

She played several roles in the theater production.

Los padres tienen papeles cruciales en la educación de sus hijos.

Parents have crucial roles in their children's education.

Figurative Meaning

This meaning comes from the idea of the script (written on paper) that defines what a character or person must do.

Working vs. Roles

Learners often confuse 'funcione' (how something works) with 'papeles' (duties/roles). Remember, if you're talking about a machine operating, use a form of 'funcionar' or 'responder'. If you mean someone's responsibilities, use 'papeles'.

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