Spanish Conversation · Level 47
75 words
Spanish word
actuar
Pronunciation
IPA/akˈtwaɾ/
Meaning
- verbact
Example
Si quieres cambiar las cosas, actúa ahora.
If you want to change things, act now.
More examples
Tras la noticia, decidió actuar en consecuencia.
After the news, he decided to act accordingly.
Core concept
Deliberate action to change a situation.
Common phrases
actuar rápido
act quickly
actuar en consecuencia
act accordingly
actuar con calma
act calmly
Similar words
hacer: Carries out a task or does practical work with hands or mind.
empezar: Starts an action or activity.
ponerse: Initiates movement or activity by oneself.
intentar: Makes an effort to achieve a specific result.
Definition in Spanish
Realizar una acción con intención para lograr un resultado; también significar interpretar un papel o ejercer un efecto sobre algo.
Word origin
Derives from Latin actuāre 'to set in motion', from agere 'to do', giving the sense of taking purposeful action.
Usage tips
- In everyday use hacer often covers simple 'do' actions, while actuar highlights intentional action, performing a role (actuar en) or exerting influence (actuar sobre).