pugna

struggle

noun POOG-nah Rare

Origin: Latin pugna (battle).

Also means

conflict

Usage Note

Pugna is a formal or literary word for a fierce contest or confrontation, used in politics (pugna de intereses 'clash of interests') and sports commentary. The everyday word for a fight is pelea or lucha; pugna carries a weightier, more combative register. The plural pugnas is regular.

Examples

"Los partidos están en pugna constante."

Natural Translation

The parties are in constant conflict.

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