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"Presionar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to put pressure on", and "pulsar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to press". Learn more about the difference between "presionar" and "pulsar" below.
presionar(
preh
-
syoh
-
nahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to compel)
a. to put pressure on
Tenemos que presionar a las autoridades para que provean más seguridad.We need to put pressure on the authorities to provide more security.
b. to pressure (United States)
Regionalism used in the United States
La guerrilla presiona a los campesinos para que salgan de sus tierras.The guerrillas are pressuring farmers to leave their lands.
c. to pressurize (United Kingdom)
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
La junta directiva presionó al presidente de la corporación para que renunciara.The Board of Directors pressurized the corporation's CEO to resign.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
pulsar(
pool
-
sahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
2. (computing)
3. (music)
a. to pluck
Usa el pulgar para pulsar los bordones de la guitarra.Use your thumb to pluck the low strings of the guitar.
4. (to assess)
a. to gauge
Se realizaron varias encuestas para pulsar la opinión pública sobre el tema.Several surveys were conducted to gauge public opinion on the subject.
b. to sound out
Me gustaría pulsar las preferencias de los empleados antes de reservar un sitio para la fiesta de la oficina.I'd like to be able to sound out staff preferences before booking anywhere for the office party.
a. to take someone's pulse
Primero que nada pulsen al paciente.First of all, take the patient's pulse.
b. to check someone's pulse
Después de poner al paciente en posición de recuperación, coloque las yemas de los dedos en su muñeca para pulsarlo.After putting the patient in the recovery position, put your fingertips on their wrist to check their pulse.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
6. (to beat)
a. to pulsate
El corazón le pulsaba aceleradamente en el pecho.His heart was pulsating rapidly in his chest.
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
