pelea
“pelea” means “fight” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
fight
Also: argument, quarrel, struggle
📝 In Action
Los niños tuvieron una pelea por el juguete.
A2The children had a fight over the toy.
Después de la pelea, no se hablaron por una semana.
B1After the argument, they didn't speak to each other for a week.
La vida es una pelea constante por nuestros sueños.
B2Life is a constant struggle for our dreams.
he/she fights
Also: you fight, fight!
📝 In Action
Él pelea por lo que cree que es justo.
B1He fights for what he believes is fair.
Señor, ¿por qué pelea tanto con su vecino?
A2Sir, why do you argue so much with your neighbor?
¡Pelea por tus sueños, no te rindas!
B1Fight for your dreams, don't give up!
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pelea
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'pelea' to mean a metaphorical struggle, not a physical or verbal fight?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Vulgar Latin word '*pilāre*', which meant 'to pluck hair' or 'to skin'. This action was associated with brawling and fighting, and over time the word evolved to mean the fight itself.
First recorded: Around the 12th century.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'pelea' and 'lucha'?
They are very similar and often interchangeable! 'Pelea' is more common for arguments and sudden fights between people. 'Lucha' often implies a longer, more sustained effort or struggle, like 'la lucha por la independencia' (the struggle for independence) or 'lucha libre' (wrestling). But you can also use 'pelea' for long struggles, so context is key.
Is 'pelea' a rude word?
Not at all. It's a neutral word to describe a conflict. Of course, talking about fighting can be part of a rude conversation, but the word 'pelea' itself is perfectly normal and used in all situations, from casual chats to news reports.