riñas

Riñas is a Spanish noun used to refer to disputes or quarrels between individuals or groups. The term covers a range of conflicts from heated verbal exchanges to physical altercations and brawls. A riña may involve family members, neighbors, coworkers, or political factions and can vary in duration from brief disputes to prolonged feuds. The word is widely used across Spain and Latin America and is commonly translated into English as dispute, altercation, or feud.

Riñas commonly arise from perceived offenses to honor, reputation, property, or social standing, but may also reflect competition for resources or power. Social norms, gender roles, and local laws influence how riñas begin and unfold and how they are resolved. In some communities, riñas operate as a way to establish boundaries and deter trespass, while in others they are stigmatized and criminalized as violence or public disorder.

In literature and media, riñas are used to illustrate conflicts within families or communities, to explore themes of loyalty, revenge, and social pressure, and to drive plot development. Resolution methods range from negotiation and mediation to formal legal action, with outcomes that can include apologies, compensation, or penalties.

Riña can also refer to cockfighting, known as riña de gallos, a separate context in which two roosters fight for betting and entertainment. This use is distinct from interpersonal disputes and varies by region; in many jurisdictions cockfighting is illegal or restricted.