Inklingo

How to Say "turned on" in Spanish

English → Spanish

prendió

verbA2
Use 'prendió' to mean 'turned on' when referring to activating an electronic device, appliance, or light.

Examples

Juan prendió la televisión para ver las noticias.

Juan turned on the television to watch the news.

excitado

eks-see-TAH-doheksiˈtaðo

adjectiveB1informal
Use 'excitado' to describe someone who is sexually aroused or feeling very enthusiastic and eager about something.
A person with bright red blushing cheeks and wide, sparkling eyes, looking pleasantly flustered.

Examples

Ella se sintió muy excitada al pensar en su próxima cita.

She felt very turned on thinking about her upcoming date.

Él se sentía excitado después de ver la película romántica.

He felt aroused after watching the romantic movie.

Las células nerviosas están en un estado excitado.

The nerve cells are in a stimulated state.

No digas 'estoy excitado' si solo estás feliz por una fiesta.

Don't say 'I'm excited' if you are just happy about a party.

Male vs. Female Ending

The word ends in -o for men (excitado) and changes to -a for women (excitada).

Using with 'Estar'

We use this word with 'estar' because it describes a temporary feeling or state of being, not a permanent personality trait.

The 'Happy' Mistake

Mistake: “Estoy excitado por el viaje.”

Correction: Estoy emocionado por el viaje. (Because 'excitado' usually implies sexual arousal in Spanish, while 'emocionado' means you are happy/looking forward to something).

puso

verbA1
Use 'puso' to mean 'turned on' when referring to playing music, starting a machine, or preparing a meal (like setting the table).

Examples

Mi mamá puso música clásica mientras cocinaba.

My mom turned on classical music while she cooked.

Device vs. Arousal Confusion

Learners often confuse 'prendió' (for devices) with 'excitado' (for arousal). Remember that 'prendió' is about making something work, while 'excitado' describes a feeling or state of being.

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