enfrentamiento
“enfrentamiento” means “confrontation” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
confrontation
Also: clash, standoff
📝 In Action
Hubo un enfrentamiento fuerte entre los dos políticos.
B1There was a strong confrontation between the two politicians.
La policía intentó evitar el enfrentamiento en la calle.
B2The police tried to avoid the clash in the street.
El enfrentamiento de ideas es necesario para el progreso.
C1The confrontation of ideas is necessary for progress.
match
Also: fixture, showdown
📝 In Action
El próximo enfrentamiento será en el estadio nacional.
A2The next match will be at the national stadium.
Es un enfrentamiento histórico entre estos dos equipos.
B1It is a historic match-up between these two teams.
Todos esperan el gran enfrentamiento de la final.
B2Everyone is waiting for the great showdown of the final.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: enfrentamiento
Question 1 of 3
Which word is a synonym for 'enfrentamiento' in a sports context?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the verb 'enfrentar' (to confront), which comes from 'frente' (front/face), originally from the Latin 'frons'. The suffix '-miento' turns the action into a noun.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'enfrentamiento' always a physical fight?
No. While it can describe a physical battle, it is very often used for verbal arguments, political disagreements, or sports matches.
What is the difference between 'enfrentamiento' and 'pelea'?
'Pelea' is more informal and usually implies a scrap or a physical fight. 'Enfrentamiento' is broader and more formal, covering everything from professional sports to political standoffs.
How do you say 'head-to-head' using this word?
You use the phrase 'enfrentamiento directo'.

