Conflict: meaning, definitions and examples

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conflict

 

[ ˈkɒn.flɪkt ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

social

A serious disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one.

Synonyms

argument, disagreement, dispute

Examples of usage

  • There was a conflict between the two parties that lasted for years.
  • The conflict between the neighbors escalated into a legal dispute.
  • The conflict arose due to differing opinions on the project.
  • The conflict between the employees led to a decrease in productivity.
  • The conflict was finally resolved through mediation.
Context #2 | Noun

internal

A mental struggle resulting from incompatible or opposing needs, drives, wishes, or external or internal demands.

Synonyms

dilemma, inner turmoil, struggle

Examples of usage

  • He experienced a conflict between his desire for success and his fear of failure.
  • The conflict within her caused inner turmoil and anxiety.
  • The character in the novel faced a conflict between duty and love.
  • His conflict between loyalty to his family and his ambition led to a difficult decision.
  • She tried to resolve the conflict between her personal values and societal expectations.
Context #3 | Verb

transitive

Be incompatible or at variance; clash.

Synonyms

clash, contradict, disagree

Examples of usage

  • Their schedules conflict, so they can't meet this week.
  • Their interests conflicted with the goals of the organization.
  • Their opinions conflict on this issue.

Translations

Translations of the word "conflict" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conflito

🇮🇳 संघर्ष

🇩🇪 Konflikt

🇮🇩 konflik

🇺🇦 конфлікт

🇵🇱 konflikt

🇯🇵 紛争 (ふんそう)

🇫🇷 conflit

🇪🇸 conflicto

🇹🇷 çatışma

🇰🇷 갈등

🇸🇦 صراع

🇨🇿 konflikt

🇸🇰 konflikt

🇨🇳 冲突 (chōngtū)

🇸🇮 konflikt

🇮🇸 átök

🇰🇿 қақтығыс

🇬🇪 კონფლიქტი

🇦🇿 münaqişə

🇲🇽 conflicto

Etymology

The word 'conflict' originated from the Latin word 'conflictus', which means 'a striking together'. The concept of conflict has been studied in various fields such as psychology, sociology, and politics. Conflicts can arise from differences in interests, values, or beliefs, and can have both positive and negative consequences. Resolving conflicts often involves communication, negotiation, and compromise.

See also: conflicted, conflicting, conflictingly, conflicts.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,514, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.