How to Say "to perform" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to perform” is “actuar” — use 'actuar' when referring to performing as an actor, a stage performer, or in a similar artistic capacity..
actuar
ak-TOO-ar/akˈtwaɾ/
Examples
Mi hermana sueña con actuar en Broadway.
My sister dreams of acting on Broadway.
El director dijo que tienes que actuar con más emoción.
The director said you have to perform with more emotion.
ejecutar
/eh-heh-koo-TAR//exeˈku.taɾ/
Examples
El equipo ejecutó el plan de marketing perfectamente.
The team carried out the marketing plan perfectly.
Es difícil ejecutar esta maniobra sin práctica.
It is difficult to perform this maneuver without practice.
Action vs. Result
Use this word when you want to focus on the professional process of getting a specific task done, rather than just the general idea of 'doing'.
Confusing with 'hacer'
Mistake: “Using 'hacer' for professional plans.”
Correction: Use 'ejecutar' to sound more professional and precise when talking about business strategies or plans.
interpretar
/een-tehr-preh-TAR//inteɾpɾeˈtaɾ/
Examples
El actor interpreta el papel de un villano muy famoso.
The actor plays the role of a very famous villain.
La orquesta interpretará la Quinta Sinfonía.
The orchestra will perform the Fifth Symphony.
representar
/reh-preh-sehn-TAR//repɾesenˈtaɾ/
Examples
El grupo de teatro va a representar Hamlet.
The theater group is going to perform Hamlet.
practicar
/prak-ti-KAR//prak.tiˈkaɾ/
Examples
El cirujano debe practicar la operación esta tarde.
The surgeon must perform the operation this afternoon.
La policía practicó un registro en la casa del sospechoso.
The police conducted a search of the suspect's house.
Formal Procedures
In formal Spanish, 'practicar' is often preferred over 'hacer' (to do) when referring to carrying out official or technical procedures.
Acting vs. Performing a Role
Related Translations
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