How to Say "operating" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “operating” is “manejando” — use this word when referring to operating or driving a vehicle or machinery.
manejando
mah-neh-HAHN-dohma.neˈxan.do
Examples
Mi hermano está manejando el coche nuevo.
My brother is operating/driving the new car.
Mi padre está manejando a la oficina ahora mismo.
My father is driving to the office right now.
Ella aprendió a manejar la motocicleta cuando era joven.
She learned to operate the motorcycle when she was young.
The Continuous Action
Use 'manejando' with a form of the verb 'estar' (like 'estoy' or 'estás') to show an action happening right now, similar to the '-ing' form in English.
Confusing Ser and Estar
Mistake: “Soy manejando.”
Correction: Estoy manejando. Remember, 'estar' is always used for temporary actions or states, like driving.
actuando
ahk-TWAHN-dohakˈtwan.do
Examples
La organización está actuando para proteger el medio ambiente.
The organization is operating/acting to protect the environment.
La empresa está actuando de manera responsable con el medio ambiente.
The company is acting responsibly toward the environment.
El abogado estuvo actuando como mediador en el conflicto.
The lawyer was acting as a mediator in the conflict.
Action vs. State
This meaning of 'actuando' focuses on the ongoing process of intervention or decision-making, not just a temporary state.
quirúrgico
Examples
El hospital tiene un quirófano moderno.
The hospital has a modern operating room.
Driving vs. Functioning
Related Translations
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