Alternativo

/ˌɔːltərˈnɑːtɪvoʊ/ adjective

Definition

A term used in bullfighting to describe a formal ceremony in which a bullfighter is promoted to full matador status and may fight bulls of normal weight.

Etymology

From Spanish 'alternativo,' derived from Latin 'alternativus,' meaning 'alternative' or 'offering choice'—in this case, the choice to advance in rank.

Kelly Says

The alternativo ceremony in bullfighting is a coming-of-age ritual dating back centuries, performed with elaborate pageantry—it marks the moment a young fighter becomes a full matador with all the prestige (and danger) that entails.

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