combatir
/kombaˈtiɾ/
The English verb "spar" is translated into Spanish as combatir.
The term is used to describe fighting, particularly as practice for martial arts or hand-to-hand combat.
Meaning: to fight, especially as practice for martial arts or hand-to-hand combat (verb)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, you may hear the phrase echar una reta, which is used to mean throwing down a challenge or a round.
How do you pronounce it?
/kombaˈtiɾ/
When do people say it?
For informal practice bouts, Spanish speakers often use the expression hacer sparring.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking martial arts gyms, the English word 'sparring' is adapted into a Spanish verb, sparringuear, to describe the act of practicing.
- If you want to spar specifically in a boxing ring, you might hear the term guanteo, which refers to the gloves used during the session.
- While combatir can mean to spar, it is more commonly used in a political or social context to mean 'to fight against' an injustice or an idea.
Examples in context
- Los estudiantes de artes marciales practican combate en el dojo.The martial arts students spar in the dojo.
- Los luchadores están haciendo sparring para prepararse para el torneo.The fighters are sparring to prepare for the tournament.
Example conversation
Mateo and Elena are at a boxing gym.
- MateoElena, ¿quieres combatir un poco ahora?Elena, do you want to spar a bit now?
- ElenaSí, Mateo, pero vamos despacio.Yes, Mateo, but let's go slow.
- MateoDe acuerdo, ponte los guantes.Alright, put on your gloves.
- ElenaListo, ya podemos combatir.Ready, we can spar now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry combatir, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
