Inklingo

How to Say "to tap" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pulsar

pool-SAHRpulˈsaɾ

verbA2
Use 'pulsar' when referring to touching or pressing a button on a screen or device.
A close-up of a human finger pressing down on a single, large, round red button.

Examples

Pulsa el botón rojo para detener la máquina.

Press the red button to stop the machine.

Debes pulsar la tecla Enter en el teclado.

You must press the Enter key on the keyboard.

Para ver el video, pulsa en el icono de reproducción.

To see the video, click on the play icon.

Pulsar vs. Empujar

Use 'pulsar' for quick touches like buttons or screens. Use 'empujar' when you need to use force to move something, like a heavy door.

Direct Action

This word usually connects directly to the thing you are pressing without needing a word in between: 'Pulsar el botón' (Press the button).

Clicking a Mouse

Mistake: “Hacer click el ratón”

Correction: Pulsar el botón del ratón (or simply 'hacer clic en'). Pulsar is the more formal way to describe the physical action.

intervenir

een-tehr-beh-neerinteɾβeˈniɾ

verbC1formal
Use 'intervenir' when talking about legally intercepting phone calls or electronic communications.
A pair of headphones connected to a wire that is clipped onto a telephone line pole.

Examples

El juez ordenó intervenir los teléfonos de los sospechosos.

The judge ordered the suspects' phones to be tapped.

El gobierno decidió intervenir el banco por irregularidades.

The government decided to seize/audit the bank due to irregularities.

Confusing 'pulsar' and 'intervenir'

Learners often confuse these two words because 'to tap' can mean both pressing a button and intercepting a call. Remember that 'pulsar' is for physical interaction with devices, while 'intervenir' is for official surveillance.

Related Translations

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