Confrontation

Definition

Confrontation refers to a situation where opposing parties meet face-to-face in a dispute, conflict, or disagreement. It can also refer to a hostile or argumentative interaction between individuals or groups.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (the act of facing conflict or dispute directly)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkɑːnfrənˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: kon-fruhn-TAY-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkɒnfrənˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: kon-fruhn-TAY-shuhn

Etymology

The word "confrontation" is derived from the Latin "confrontare," meaning "to stand in front of, to face." It is formed from "con-" (with, together) and "frontem" (forehead or front), suggesting the idea of meeting face-to-face in conflict or opposition.

Derivatives

• Confront (verb)
• Confrontational (adjective)
• Confronting (adjective)
• Confronted (verb)
• Confrontationally (adverb)

Synonyms

• Clash
• Dispute
• Conflict

Antonyms

• Agreement
• Harmony
• Peace

Usage

The term "confrontation" is often used to describe situations of conflict or disagreement, whether verbal or physical. For instance, "The political debate quickly turned into a heated confrontation between the two candidates." It can also apply to diplomatic or military contexts, where two opposing forces face off.

Related Terms

• Dispute: A disagreement or argument.
• Face-off: A direct conflict or encounter.
• Altercation: A noisy argument or confrontation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A face-to-face meeting between opposing parties in a conflict: Refers to a direct encounter between individuals or groups engaged in a disagreement or fight.
  • Example: "The two leaders had a tense confrontation during the summit."
• A hostile or argumentative interaction: Refers to verbal or physical interactions where parties oppose or challenge each other.
  • Example: "There was a violent confrontation between the protestors and the police."