Phrase guide

mano a mano

adj · adv · noun · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

adj

Meaning 1

In close confrontation.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: not-comparable

Examples

  • We sat tensely in the courtroom while the mano-a-mano struggle ensued between the two skilled lawyers.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

adv

Meaning 2

Characterized by head-to-head competition or conflict.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: not-comparable

Examples

  • The newcomer brashly engaged the veteran player mano a mano.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

noun

Meaning 3

A head-on conflict or direct competition.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • The public debate became a heated mano a mano between the two leading candidates.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: duel

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish mano a mano (literally “hand-to-hand”); on equal footing, neither of two participants having any distinct advantage.

Across languages

Translations

4 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Polish: jeden na jednego — a head-on conflict or direct competition; a duel
  • Portuguese: mano a mano — a head-on conflict or direct competition; a duel
  • Russian: дуэ́ль (duélʹ) — a head-on conflict or direct competition; a duel
  • Spanish: mano a mano — a head-on conflict or direct competition; a duel