Riña

Riña is a feminine noun in Spanish that refers to a quarrel, dispute, or confrontation between people. It can be verbal, with heated arguments and insults, or physical, such as a scuffle. A riña is typically more intense or protracted than a simple disagreement and can involve individuals or groups, such as neighbors, family members, friends, or rival factions.

The term is commonly used in expressions like riña vecinal (neighborhood quarrel), riña familiar (family dispute), or riña entre aficionados (fandom dispute). It can describe conflicts ranging from minor skirmishes to long-standing hostilities between communities or families. In some contexts, riña may lead to interventions by authorities or mediation, especially when public order is affected.

In literature and historical writing, riña often denotes a deeper or more entrenched feud, highlighting social tensions or personal enmities. While the word can imply potential violence, it does not always entail physical aggression; the emphasis is on the confrontation and its emotional or social impact.

Etymology and related terms: riña derives from the verb reñir, meaning to quarrel or argue. The noun uses the suffix -iña to form a nominalized concept. The plural is riñas. Related terms include pelea, disputa, altercado, and contienda, which vary in nuance from a single incident to a broader confrontation.