Inklingo

How to Say "to function" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “to function” is “funcionar” — use 'funcionar' when referring to systems, organs, or organizations working as expected.

English → Spanish

funcionar

foon-syoh-NARfunθjoˈnaɾ

verbB1general
Use 'funcionar' when referring to systems, organs, or organizations working as expected.
Three large, colorful gears interlock and spin smoothly together, representing a functioning system.

Examples

El departamento de ventas funciona mejor ahora que tienen un nuevo líder.

The sales department functions better now that they have a new leader.

El nuevo sistema de transporte público funciona con gran eficiencia.

The new public transport system operates with great efficiency.

andar

ahn-DAHRanˈdaɾ

verbB1informal
Use 'andar' informally to describe how machines or processes are working, or how things are going in a general situation.
A simple, bright storybook illustration of a large, friendly yellow sun with a joyful, wide smile.

Examples

¿Cómo andan las cosas en tu trabajo?

How are things going at your job?

Mi primo anda buscando un apartamento cerca del centro.

My cousin is looking for an apartment near the center.

El coche no anda bien desde que lo llevé al taller.

The car hasn't been working well since I took it to the garage.

The 'Andar' + Gerund Pattern

When 'andar' is followed by the '-ando' or '-iendo' form (the gerund), it emphasizes that the action is ongoing and often implies wandering or a lack of specific purpose. (e.g., 'Anda diciendo tonterías' = He goes around saying nonsense).

Confusing 'Andar' and 'Estar'

Mistake: “Using 'Ando feliz' for 'I am happy' (a permanent state).”

Correction: While 'Ando' is acceptable for temporary moods, 'Estoy feliz' is safer and more common for expressing emotion. Use 'andar' more for temporary physical states or 'going around' doing something.

trabajar

tra-ba-HARtɾa.βaˈxaɾ

verbA2general
Use 'trabajar' when a machine or device is operating correctly, often implying it's 'doing its job'.
A bright red electric blender actively mixing colorful fruits and liquids, demonstrating a machine that is functioning.

Examples

El aire acondicionado no trabaja.

The air conditioning doesn't work.

¿Sabes por qué la impresora no trabaja?

Do you know why the printer isn't working?

Este plan no va a trabajar.

This plan isn't going to work.

operar

oh-peh-RAHRopeˈɾaɾ

verbA2formal
Use 'operar' for complex systems or machines, especially when describing their performance or how they are run.
A brightly colored cartoon industrial machine with visible turning gears and a conveyor belt successfully moving a small object, showing it is functioning.

Examples

El nuevo sistema operativo opera mucho más rápido.

The new operating system functions much faster.

Esta empresa opera en varios países de Latinoamérica.

This company operates in several Latin American countries.

Context is Key

When referring to a machine or system, 'operar' means 'to work/function.' When referring to a person, it means 'to perform surgery.' The subject tells you the meaning.

servir

ser-VEERseɾˈβiɾ

verbB1general
Use 'servir' to inquire about the purpose or use of a device or tool, essentially asking 'what is it good for?'.
An open red toolbox displaying several shiny, well-organized hand tools.

Examples

¿Para qué sirve este botón rojo?

What is this red button used for?

Este mapa no me sirve; necesito uno más reciente.

This map is not useful to me; I need a more recent one.

Mi viejo móvil todavía sirve para hacer llamadas.

My old cell phone still works for making calls.

Using Servir for Purpose

When you want to ask or state what something is used for, always follow 'servir' with the preposition 'para' and then the noun or verb: ¿Sirve para cortar? (Is it used for cutting?)

Mixing up 'Servir' and 'Trabajar'

Mistake: “El coche no trabaja.”

Correction: El coche no sirve/funciona. ('Trabajar' is for people; 'servir' or 'funcionar' is for machines/objects.)

jalar

hah-LAHRxaˈlaɾ

verbB1informal
Use 'jalar' informally to mean that a plan, system, or device is working or not working.
A small orange tractor moving through a field with its engine running.

Examples

Mi computadora ya no jala.

My computer doesn't work anymore.

¿Jala bien el internet aquí?

Does the internet work well here?

Using 'Jalar' for Technology

In a casual setting, use 'jalar' instead of 'funcionar' to sound more like a local when talking about phones, cars, or apps.

Choosing Between 'Funcionar' and 'Trabajar'

Learners often confuse 'funcionar' and 'trabajar'. While both can mean 'to work', 'funcionar' is broader and applies to systems and organizations, whereas 'trabajar' is more literal, implying a machine is actively 'working' or 'doing its job'.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.