How to Say "operated" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “operated” is “funcionó” — use this when 'operated' refers to a business, institution, or even a person acting in a specific capacity, like a leader or mediator..
funcionó
/foon-syoh-NOH//funθjoˈno/
Examples
La empresa funcionó con éxito durante una década.
The company operated successfully for a decade.
El presidente funcionó como mediador en el conflicto.
The president served as a mediator in the conflict.
La oficina funcionó con éxito durante la ausencia del jefe.
The office operated successfully during the boss's absence.
Formal Roles
When referring to a person or institution carrying out a specific function or duty (often followed by 'como' + a role), 'funcionar' is a precise choice.
trabajó
trah-bah-HOH/tɾa.βaˈxo/
Examples
El motor trabajó sin problemas durante todo el viaje.
The engine operated without problems during the entire trip.
La bomba de agua trabajó toda la noche sin parar.
The water pump worked all night without stopping.
El plan de marketing trabajó mejor de lo que esperábamos.
The marketing plan worked better than we expected.
Inanimate Subjects
In this context, the subject of 'trabajó' is usually a machine, a system, or an abstract concept like a strategy or plan.
Examples
El sistema de riego funcionaba automáticamente.
The irrigation system operated automatically.
Funcionó vs. Trabajó vs. Funcionaba
Related Translations
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