Spanish Conversation · Level 131
44 words
Spanish word
retar
Pronunciation
IPA/reˈtaɾ/
Meaning
- verbchallenge
Example
Yo reto a mi hermano a jugar al ajedrez.
I challenge my brother to play chess.
More examples
El entrenador retó al equipo a mejorar en los entrenamientos.
The coach challenged the team to improve in training.
Core concept
A dare-like test offered to someone.
Common phrases
retar a alguien
challenge someone
retar a un amigo
challenge a friend
Similar words
desafiar: Set up a contest or hard task meant to test someone's courage or ability.
provocar: Intentionally stir up someone's emotions or reactions to get a response.
atreverse: Act despite fear or danger, choosing to take a risky step.
Definition in Spanish
Desafiar a alguien a realizar una acción o superar un obstáculo para medir su capacidad o animarle a probar.
Word origin
Derived from the noun reto 'challenge' plus the verb suffix -ar, meaning to present a task to someone and invite them to try to overcome it.
Usage tips
- Commonly followed by a person and a plus an infinitive (retar a alguien a + infinitive), and its direct, dare-like tone can sound confrontational unless accompanied by friendly wording or expression.