regreso
/reˈɡɾeso/
In Spanish, 'comeback' can be translated as regreso.
The English sense of a 'comeback' as a retort or an answer is better expressed through more specific terms. In formal settings, you might use words that denote a counterargument, whereas in casual conversation, you would use phrases describing a clever or witty response.
Meaning: retort or answer (noun)
Which one should you use?
Réplica and contrarréplica are used for structured arguments, while respuesta ingeniosa and réplica ingeniosa are used for witty rejoinders.
How do you pronounce it?
/reˈɡɾeso/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, a 'comeback' in a social argument might be called una salida, which literally means 'an exit'.
- While regreso means 'return', Spanish speakers often use the phrase darle la vuelta to describe a 'comeback' in a game or a debate. It literally means 'to turn it around' and captures the spirit of changing a losing situation into a win.
- The word regreso comes from the Latin regressus, which shares the same root as the English word 'regress'. While 'regress' usually implies moving backward or worsening in English, regreso is a neutral term for returning.
Examples in context
- La réplica del orador fue impresionante y logró desarmar el argumento contrario.The speaker's comeback was impressive and managed to dismantle the opposing argument.
- La contrarréplica del especialista fue contundente y dejó sin palabras a los opositores.The specialist's comeback was compelling and left the opponents speechless.
- Su réplica ingeniosa hizo reír a todos los presentes.His/her witty comeback made everyone laugh.
- Nadie espera una contestación aguda como la tuya.No one expects a sharp comeback like yours.
- No creo que puedas superar mi réplica anterior. / Permíteme demostrarte que mi contrarréplica será aún mejor.I don't believe you can top my previous comeback. / Allow me to show you that my rebuttal will be even better.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are talking about a funny argument.
- DanielElena me criticó ayer en la reunión.Elena criticized me yesterday in the meeting.
- ElenaY tú no dijiste nada, Daniel?And you didn't say anything, Daniel?
- DanielNo, me faltó un buen regreso.No, I lacked a good comeback.
- ElenaLa próxima vez piensa más rápido.Next time think faster.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry regreso, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries regreso, CC BY-SA 4.0.
