This is the 13480th most frequent German word.
betätigen
"Betätigen" means "to activate, operate, or engage."
Here, 'betätigen' is used to describe the physical act of activating or using a device, tool, or mechanism.
Er betätigt den Schalter, um das Licht einzuschalten.
He operates the switch to turn on the light.
In this context, 'betätigen sich als' suggests occupying oneself or taking on a role, indicating carrying out a task specific to a role or profession.
Er betätigte sich als Übersetzer für die Firma.
He acted as a translator for the company.
Here, 'betätigen sich' is used in a reflexive form to indicate engaging in a form of activity, such as sports, indicating participation or involvement.