Spanish Phrase
La lavadora está en marcha.
Meaning
The sentence tells the listener that the washing machine is currently running. It can be used to inform someone that a laundry cycle has started or to warn not to open the machine while it’s operating.
When to use
Use this phrase at home, in a dormitory, or at a laundromat when you need to let others know the washing machine is in use, or when you’re answering a question about whether the machine is available.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Lalavadoraestáenmarcha
Definite article (La)
Use 'la' for feminine singular nouns like 'lavadora'.
Noun gender (lavadora)
'Lavadora' is a feminine noun meaning 'washing machine'.
Estar (está)
'Estar' expresses a temporary state; here it tells that the machine is currently operating.
En marcha
The idiom 'en marcha' means 'running, in operation' and is used for machines, projects, or any activity that has started.
🗨In Conversation
¿Ya puedes usar la lavadora?
Can you use the washing machine yet?
No, la lavadora está en marcha.
No, the washing machine is running.
✕Common Mistakes
La lavadora es en marcha.
Use 'estar' for temporary states; 'es' (from ser) is incorrect here.
Lavadora está en marcha.
The definite article is required before a specific noun.
La lavadora está marcha.
The preposition 'en' is needed to form the idiom 'en marcha'.
↔Alternatives
La lavadora está funcionando.
The washing machine is functioning.
La lavadora ya está en marcha.
The washing machine is already running.
La lavadora está en proceso.
The washing machine is in process.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking households it’s polite to announce that an appliance is in use, especially in shared spaces, to avoid interruptions. The expression 'en marcha' is versatile: you’ll also hear it for trains ('el tren está en marcha'), projects ('el proyecto está en marcha') and other devices.