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Spanish Phrase

¿Este cajero funciona?

/ˈes.te kaˈxe.ɾo funˈsjo.na/
Meaning"Does this ATM work?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a direct and common way to inquire about the operational status of an ATM (Automated Teller Machine). It literally translates to "Does this ATM function?" and is used when you need to know if you can use the machine to withdraw money or perform other banking transactions.

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When to use

You would typically use this phrase when approaching an ATM that might look old, out of order, or if you're unsure if it's currently active. It's perfect for asking a local, a store employee, or even a fellow traveler if the machine is operational before attempting to use it.

✦Grammar Breakdown

¿Estecajerofunciona?

1

Este (This)

'Este' is a masculine singular demonstrative adjective, meaning 'this'. It must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies, which in this case is 'cajero' (masculine singular).

2

Cajero (ATM / Cashier)

While 'cajero' can mean a human cashier, in the context of a machine, it refers to an ATM. The full term is 'cajero automático', but 'cajero' is often used alone when the context is clear.

3

Funciona (Works / Functions)

'Funciona' is the third-person singular conjugation of the verb 'funcionar' (to work, to function). It's the correct verb to use when asking if a machine or system is operational.

🗨In Conversation

A

Disculpe, ¿este cajero funciona?

Excuse me, does this ATM work?

Sí, funciona perfectamente. Acabo de usarlo.

Yes, it works perfectly. I just used it.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • ¿Es este cajero funciona?

    The verb 'ser' (es) is for identity or permanent characteristics. 'Funcionar' is an action verb, so 'ser' is not needed here. The subject 'este cajero' directly performs the action 'funciona'.

  • ¿Este cajero trabaja?

    'Trabajar' means 'to work' in the sense of a person having a job. For machines or systems, 'funcionar' is the correct verb to indicate if they are operational.

  • ¿Esta cajero funciona?

    'Cajero' is a masculine noun, so it requires the masculine demonstrative adjective 'este' (this). 'Esta' is feminine.

↔Alternatives

  • ¿El cajero automático está funcionando?

    Is the ATM working?

  • ¿Hay un cajero que funcione por aquí?

    Is there an ATM that works around here?

  • ¿Está operativo este cajero?

    Is this ATM operational?

es

Cultural Tip

In many Spanish-speaking countries, it's common to be slightly more indirect or add a polite greeting before asking a direct question, especially to strangers. While "¿Este cajero funciona?" is perfectly acceptable, you might precede it with "Disculpe," (Excuse me,) or "Perdone," (Pardon me,) to sound more natural and courteous. Also, be aware that 'cajero' can also refer to a human cashier, so context is key.