How to Say "turned on" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “turned on” is “encender” — use this verb when you want to express turning on an electronic device, appliance, or light..
English → Spanish
verbA2general
Use this verb when you want to express turning on an electronic device, appliance, or light.
Examples
Por favor, enciende la luz cuando entres.
Please turn on the light when you enter.
prender
verbA2general
This verb is also used for turning on devices and appliances, often interchangeably with 'encender', and can also mean to light a fire.
Examples
Voy a prender la televisión para ver las noticias.
I'm going to turn on the television to watch the news.
activar
verbB1general
Use this verb when referring to activating a function, a system, or a security measure.
Examples
Debes activar tu cuenta después de registrarte.
You must activate your account after registering.
verbA1general
This verb can mean 'turned on' in a more figurative or specific context, such as turning on music or setting the mood, but its primary meaning is 'to put' or 'to place'.
Examples
Vamos a poner música para animar la fiesta.
Let's put on music to liven up the party.
Confusing 'encender'/'prender' with 'poner'
Learners often incorrectly use 'poner' to turn on electronic devices. Remember that 'encender' and 'prender' are the standard verbs for activating appliances and lights, while 'poner' is generally used for setting something in place or starting something less literal, like music.
Related Translations
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