ataca
“ataca” means “he/she/it attacks” in Spanish (3rd person singular present tense (indicative)).
he/she/it attacks, you attack, Attack!Also: he/she criticizes, it affects
📝 In Action
El perro ataca si te acercas a su plato.
A2The dog attacks if you approach its bowl.
Siempre me ataca con críticas injustas.
B1He always attacks me with unfair criticism.
¡Ataca! No dejes que se escape.
B1Attack! Don't let him escape.
La enfermedad ataca el sistema nervioso.
B2The disease affects the nervous system.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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Words that translate to "ataca" in Spanish:
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ataca
Question 1 of 2
Which of these sentences uses 'ataca' as a direct command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
The word comes from the Old French verb *attaquer*, which itself came from a Germanic root, meaning 'to attach' or 'to fasten oneself to.' The meaning evolved into 'to assault' or 'to attack' someone or something.
First recorded: 13th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ataca' the same form used for 'you' (formal) and 'he/she'?
Yes, 'ataca' is the standard third-person singular form, which is used for 'él' (he), 'ella' (she), and 'usted' (you formal). For example: 'Él ataca' (He attacks) and 'Usted ataca' (You formal attack).
How do I say 'Don't attack!' using the informal command?
Since 'atacar' is a verb that requires the special Subjunctive form for negative commands, you would say: '¡No ataques!' (Note the 'es' ending).