pugnar

to struggle

verb poog-NAHR Rare

Origin: Latin pugnare (to fight), from pugnus (fist)

Also means

to contend

Usage Note

Pugnar means to strive or fight for something, often followed by por + infinitive (pugnar por sobrevivir, to struggle to survive) or contra when fighting against something. It is a formal, literary verb; everyday speakers prefer luchar or pelear. It does not describe physical fighting but rather a sustained, determined effort against opposition.

Examples

"Los equipos pugnaron por el primer puesto."

Natural Translation

The teams fought for first place.

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