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"Configurar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to configure", and "activar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to activate". Learn more about the difference between "configurar" and "activar" below.
configurar(
kohm
-
fee
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goo
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rahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (computing)
a. to configure
Configuré el programa y cambié el idioma a español.I configured the software and changed the language to Spanish.
b. to set up
Tuve que llamar a un especialista para configurar mi módem.I had to call a specialist to set up my modem.
2. (to create)
a. to shape
El gobierno configuró un nuevo plan económico para combatir la inflación.The government shaped a new economic plan to combat inflation.
b. to form
Las tres naciones configuraron una alianza para enfrentarse a un enemigo en común.The three nations formed an alliance to fight against a common enemy.
configurarse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
a. to take shape
La Organización de las Naciones Unidas se configuró tras la Segunda Guerra Mundial.The United Nations took shape after World War II.
activar(
ahk
-
tee
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bahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to activate
Presiona el botón azul para activar el dispositivo inalámbrico.Press the blue button to activate the wireless device.
2. (to boost)
a. to stimulate
El gobierno busca activar la economía y crear nuevos puestos de trabajo.The government seeks to stimulate the economy and create new jobs.
3. (fire)
a. to stoke
El maquinista activó el fuego con el fuelle.The machinist stoked the fire with the bellows.
4. (chemistry)
activarse
A pronominal verb always uses a reflexive pronoun. (e.g., Te ves cansado.).
a. to go off
La alarma contra incendios se activó porque alguien prendió un cigarrillo dentro del edificio.The fire alarm went off because somebody lit a cigarette inside the building.
b. to activate
El sistema de seguridad se activa automaticamente.The security system activates automatically.
