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karibal

karibál with stress marks

rival

noun ka-ri-BAL Spanish origin Less Common

Usage Note

Karibal is a Spanish loanword for a rival or competitor in love, business, sports, or any competitive context. It is widely used in everyday speech and is a staple of telenovela dialogue, where romantic karibal dynamics are a central plot engine.

Examples

Beginner

" Siya ang karibal ko. "

Natural Translation

He's my rival.

Literal Translation

He the rival my.

Intermediate

" Ang kanyang karibal sa negosyo ay nagbukas ng tindahan sa kabilang kanto. "

Natural Translation

His/Her business rival opened a store on the opposite corner.

Literal Translation

The his/her rival in-the business opened of-a store on-the opposite corner.

Advanced

" Bagaman magkaribal sila sa negosyo, naging magkaibigan pa rin sila nang magkakilala sa labas ng trabaho. "

Natural Translation

Although they're business rivals, they still became friends once they got to know each other outside of work.

Literal Translation

Although mutual-rivals they in-the business, became friends still they when got-acquainted at outside of work.

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