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"Hacer un papel" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to play a role", and "desempeñar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to carry out". Learn more about the difference between "hacer un papel" and "desempeñar" below.
hacer un papel(
ah
-
sehr
oon
pah
-
pehl
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
a. to play a role
La comisión hizo un papel destacado en la protección de los derechos humanos.The committee played a prominent role in the protection of human rights.
a. to play a role
Carlos hizo un papel secundario en una telenovela.Carlos played a secondary role in a soap opera.
desempeñar(
dehs
-
ehm
-
peh
-
ngahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to execute)
a. to carry out
El becario ha desempeñado todas sus tareas de manera eficiente.The intern has carried out all his assignments efficiently.
b. to hold (a position)
Actualmente, la Sra. González desempeña un cargo muy importante en la empresa.Currently, Ms. Gonzalez holds a very important position in the company.
a. to redeem
Si usted no desempeña sus joyas, las revenderemos.If you fail to redeem your jewels, we'll resell them.
desempeñarse
A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
a. to work as
Me desempeñé como mesera para pagar la universidad.I worked as a waitress to pay for university.
5. (finances)
a. to get out of debt
Él se desempeñó temprano porque pagó más y más cada mes.He got out of debt early because he paid a little more each month.
