defenderse
“defenderse” means “to defend oneself” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to defend oneself
Also: to stand up for oneself
📝 In Action
El boxeador supo defenderse muy bien en el ring.
B1The boxer knew how to defend himself very well in the ring.
Tienes que aprender a defenderte ante las injusticias.
B1You have to learn to stand up for yourself against injustices.
to get by
Also: to hold one's own
📝 In Action
No hablo alemán perfecto, pero me defiendo.
B1I don't speak perfect German, but I get by.
En la cocina, él se defiende bastante bien.
B1In the kitchen, he holds his own quite well.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: defenderse
Question 1 of 2
If you are at a party and someone asks if you speak Spanish, and you want to say you 'manage okay,' what do you say?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'defendere', which means 'to ward off' or 'to protect,' combined with the Spanish reflexive pronoun 'se' (oneself).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'defender' and 'defenderse'?
'Defender' is used when you protect someone else or an idea (e.g., 'Defender a un amigo'). 'Defenderse' is reflexive, meaning you are protecting yourself.
Does 'defenderse' always mean physical fighting?
Not at all! It often means 'getting by' in a language or skill, or responding to a verbal argument.