Conflict

Definition

Conflict is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a serious disagreement or argument, often protracted. It can also refer to a struggle or clash between opposing forces or ideas. As a verb, it means to come into opposition or be incompatible with something else.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑnflɪkt/
• Noun Respelling: KON-flikt
• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈflɪkt/
• Verb Respelling: kuhn-FLIKT

British English

• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒnflɪkt/
• Noun Respelling: KON-flikt
• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈflɪkt/
• Verb Respelling: kuhn-FLIKT

Etymology

The word "conflict" originates from the Latin "conflictus," meaning "a striking together" or "a clash," derived from "confligere," which means "to strike together" (from "con-" meaning "together" and "fligere" meaning "to strike"). It entered English through Old French "conflict" as both a noun and a verb, retaining its meanings related to clash and opposition.

Derivatives

• Conflicting (adjective)
• Conflictual (adjective)
• Conflict-free (adjective)
• Conflictuality (noun)
• Conflicted (adjective)

Synonyms

• Dispute
• Clash
• Struggle

Antonyms

• Harmony
• Agreement
• Peace

Usage

The term "conflict" is widely used to describe disagreements, confrontations, or incompatibilities in social, professional, and personal contexts. For example, "There was a conflict between the two departments," or "Their interests conflict with each other."

Related Terms

• Dispute: A disagreement or argument, especially between individuals or groups.
• Discord: Lack of harmony or agreement among people or things.
• Tension: A state of mental or emotional strain often associated with conflict.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A serious disagreement or argument, often prolonged: Refers to a situation where opposing sides are in disagreement.
  • Example: "The political conflict led to months of unrest."
• A struggle or clash between opposing forces or ideas: Used in contexts involving battles, confrontations, or incompatible ideas.
  • Example: "The movie explores the internal conflict of the main character."

Verb

• To come into opposition or be incompatible: Describes the act of two or more elements being at odds with each other.
  • Example: "Their schedules conflict, making it hard to meet."