Spanish Conversation · Level 56
72 words
Spanish word
rival
Pronunciation
IPA/riˈβal/
Meaning
- noun (m./f.)rival
Example
Mi rival estudia en la misma universidad.
My rival studies at the same university.
More examples
En la final, mi rival directo falló el último tiro.
In the final, my direct rival missed the last shot.
Core concept
Competitor aiming for the same prize or advantage.
Common phrases
rival directo
direct rival
tener un rival
have a rival
Similar words
competidor: Participates in competitions or the marketplace with the explicit aim of winning.
adversario: Acts from the opposing side in a conflict, dispute, or struggle.
oponente: Serves as the immediate opponent in a match, debate, or contest.
contrincante: Engages directly in a head-to-head match or fight to determine victory.
Definition in Spanish
Sujeto que compite con otro por obtener una ventaja, especialmente en deportes, negocios o política.
Word origin
The word comes from Latin rivalis ('one who uses the same stream'), based on rivus 'stream', with the image of parties contesting the same source developing into the modern sense of rival.
Usage tips
- Spanish frequently uses rival with qualifiers like rival directo or rival histórico to mark a notable or recurring opponent, so expect rival to carry stronger contrast than a neutral competitor.