Spanish word

enfrentar

Pronunciation

IPA/enfɾenˈtaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbface

Example

Tenemos que enfrentar el problema.

We have to face the problem.

Illustration for enfrentar (face)

More examples

Debes enfrentar las consecuencias de tus actos.

You must face the consequences of your actions.

Core concept

A person standing squarely before a barrier.

Common phrases

  • enfrentar las consecuencias

    face the consequences

  • enfrentar a alguien

    confront someone

Similar words

afrontar: Engages a difficulty assertively and aims to solve it.
hacer frente a: Faces a situation head-on and addresses what it requires.
lidiar: Manages practical problems and everyday hassles as they occur.

Definition in Spanish

Ponerse frente a una situación, problema o persona para tratarla o resolverla; aparecer también en forma pronominal enfrentarse a cuando el sujeto participa directamente.

Word origin

From en- plus frente (front, from Latin frons 'forehead'), originally 'place in front' and now 'to face or confront'.

Usage tips

  • The non-reflexive enfrentar often treats something from the outside, while enfrentarse a makes the action personal with the subject directly facing it.

Other meanings

  • confrontverb
  • tackleverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word