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Clash Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clash

[klæʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

video game

A conflict or disagreement between two opposing groups or individuals.

Synonyms

conflict, confrontation, disagreement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clash

This is typically used when describing a physical conflict or a heated argument. It implies a strong and often violent confrontation.

  • The two football teams clashed on the field
  • There was a clash between the protesters and the police
conflict

Used to describe a serious disagreement or incompatibility between people, ideas, or interests. It often implies a longer-term issue rather than a one-time event.

  • The conflict between the two countries has lasted for decades
  • There can be a conflict of interest in business partnerships
disagreement

This word is used to indicate a simple difference of opinion. It is less intense and doesn't suggest physical conflict or violence.

  • We had a minor disagreement about the project's direction
  • Their disagreement over politics didn't affect their friendship
confrontation

This word is used when there is a face-to-face encounter between opposing parties, often implying a direct challenge or hostility. It can be more formal or serious than 'clash.'

  • There was a tense confrontation between the manager and the employees
  • The debate turned into a full-blown confrontation

Examples of usage

  • There was a clash between the two rival gangs in the game.
  • The clash between the players resulted in chaos in the virtual world.
Context #2 | Noun

music

A combination of different musical elements that do not seem to fit together.

Synonyms

blend, fusion, mixture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clash

Same as the first entry for 'clash', indicating conflict or disagreement.

  • The sound of their voices clashed in the crowded room.
  • The two teams clashed on the field, each determined to win.
mixture

Use 'mixture' to refer to a combination of different substances or elements where the individual components are still distinguishable. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • The cake batter is a mixture of flour, sugar, eggs, and milk.
  • Her feelings were a mixture of joy and sadness.
blend

Use 'blend' when you want to describe the harmonious mixing of different elements, making them indistinguishable from each other.

  • She prefers to blend fruits into her morning smoothies.
  • The artist blended colors to create a stunning sunset on the canvas.
fusion

Use 'fusion' to describe the process of combining two or more things into a single entity, often creating something new and innovative. It is commonly used in the context of cuisine, music, and technology.

  • The restaurant specializes in Asian-Latin fusion cuisine.
  • Fusion jazz combines elements of rock and traditional jazz.

Examples of usage

  • The song had a clash of styles that made it unique.
  • The clash of genres in the music created an interesting sound.
Context #3 | Verb

metalworking

To come into violent conflict.

Synonyms

battle, collide, fight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clash

Typically used when two groups or individuals strongly disagree or come into conflict. This can be physical or ideological.

  • The two politicians clashed during the debate.
  • Protesters clashed with the police during the march.
collide

Used when two or more objects or forces physically run into each other with force. Can also be used metaphorically for intense disagreements.

  • The cars collided at the intersection.
  • Their ideas collide because they come from different perspectives.
fight

Commonly used to describe physical confrontations or disputes. It can range from minor scuffles to larger conflicts.

  • The two boys got into a fight at school.
  • They had a fight over the best way to complete the project.
battle

Often used in the context of armed conflict or serious struggles between large groups, such as armies or nations. It can also describe intense personal struggles.

  • The two armies prepared for battle at dawn.
  • She faced a long battle against her illness.

Examples of usage

  • The metal pieces clashed together in the forge.
  • The swords clashed loudly in the heat of battle.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The word has been used in military contexts, such as 'clash of armies,' to describe battles or conflicts.
  • In sports, clashes often refer to matches between rival teams, highlighting the competition.
  • Historical events like the 'Clash of Civilizations' referred to the tension between different cultural or religious groups.

Pop Culture

  • In music, a 'clash' can refer to a significant difference in styles that creates a unique sound, evident in genres like punk or metal.
  • Movies often depict clashes as dramatic confrontations, heightening tension in storylines.
  • 'Clash of Clans' is a popular mobile game where players engage in strategic battles, showcasing the competitive aspect.

Science

  • In physics, a 'clash' can relate to particle colliders, where particles collide at high speeds to study fundamental forces.
  • The term is used in ecology to describe the interaction between species competing for resources, known as 'ecological clash.'
  • In music theory, 'clashing' notes create tension, which can lead to resolution or harmony in composition.

Psychology

  • Conflict resolution often revolves around how individuals handle 'clashes' in opinions or interests.
  • Studies show that small 'clashes' in workplace ideas can lead to innovative solutions if managed appropriately.
  • Cognitive dissonance occurs when a person's beliefs clash with new information, prompting a change in attitude or belief.

Origin of 'clash'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'claschen,' meaning to strike or hit.
  • It is related to the Old Norse word 'klassa,' which means to rattle or make a noise.
  • The use of 'clash' to describe conflicts or disagreements dates back to the 19th century.

The word 'clash' originated from the Middle English word 'clashen' which means 'to make a loud, harsh noise'. It has been used since the 16th century to describe conflicts or disagreements, and later expanded to include musical and other contexts. The word 'clash' is often associated with confrontation and the clash of ideas or styles.

See also: clashes, clashing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,678, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.