The invention relates to a method (100) for operating an inverter (1) which selectively connects each of three alternating current phases (U, V, W) of an inductive load (4) to the plus pole or minus pole of a direct current (2) provided at the input (1a) of the inverter (1) by actuating switching elements (3a-3f) arranged in three half bridges (5a-5c), wherein the switch states of the switching elements (3a-3f) are modified (110) by a rotating space vector modulation. Additionally, in the event of a modulation between space vectors (6a-6f) which have the same switch element (3a, 3d; 3b, 3e; 3c, 3f) switch states with respect to at least one half bridge (5a-5c), such a half bridge (5a-5c) remains completely deactivated (120).