pugnar
to struggle
verb poog-NAHR Rare
Origin: Latin pugnare (to fight), from pugnus (fist)
Also means
to contend
Usage Note
Pugnar means to strive or fight for something, often followed by por + infinitive (pugnar por sobrevivir, to struggle to survive) or contra when fighting against something. It is a formal, literary verb; everyday speakers prefer luchar or pelear. It does not describe physical fighting but rather a sustained, determined effort against opposition.
Examples
"Los equipos pugnaron por el primer puesto."
Natural Translation
The teams fought for first place.
Related Words
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