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 word when referring to the proper operation or correct working of a system, machine, or process, often in a formal context or when expressing necessity.
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
Choose this translation when describing the way a person, system, or object behaves or carries out its role or actions.

Examples

El presidente actúa con mucha cautela en esta crisis.

The president acts with great caution in this crisis.

responde

rreh-SPOHN-deh/resˈpon.de/

verbB1general
This word is best for describing how a machine or system reacts or performs when put into action, emphasizing 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.

Function vs. Operation vs. Response

Learners often confuse 'funcione' (works correctly) with 'actúa' (behaves or performs). Remember, 'funcione' is about whether something is *working* as it should, while 'actúa' is about *how* it is performing its actions.

Related Translations

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