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Duel: meaning, definitions and examples

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duel

 

[ˈdjuːəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

martial arts

A duel is a prearranged, formal combat between two persons, usually fought to settle a point of honor.

Synonyms

combat, conflict, fight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
duel

A duel is a formal fight between two people, often to settle a personal disagreement or restore honor. It is usually prearranged and follows specific rules.

  • The nobles decided to resolve their disagreement with a duel at dawn.
  • In the old days, a duel was a matter of honor.
combat

Combat refers to a broader form of fighting, usually in a military context. It involves armed forces and can include both large-scale battles and small skirmishes.

  • The soldiers were trained for combat.
  • The new video game simulates aerial combat scenarios.
fight

A fight is a physical altercation between individuals or groups. It can occur spontaneously and is often not formal or prearranged.

  • The students got into a fight after school.
  • There was a fight at the bar last night.
conflict

Conflict refers to any disagreement, clash, or struggle between individuals or groups. It can be physical or non-physical and encompasses a wide range of disputes.

  • The conflict between the two companies lasted for years.
  • There was a conflict of interests between the partners.

Examples of usage

  • The two gentlemen decided to settle their dispute with a duel.
  • In the past, duels were common among nobility to defend their honor.
Context #2 | Verb

martial arts

To duel means to engage in a prearranged, formal combat with another person.

Synonyms

battle, clash, fight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
duel

A formal or traditional one-on-one combat, often historical or ceremonial.

  • In the 18th century, a dispute between gentlemen was often settled by a duel at dawn
fight

A general term for a physical struggle or confrontation, can be between individuals or groups and in various contexts including informal situations.

  • The two boys got into a fight over a misunderstanding in the schoolyard
battle

A large-scale conflict between groups, typically in a military or strategic setting.

  • The battle of Waterloo was one of the most significant battles in European history
clash

A short, intense conflict between groups or individuals, often unplanned or spontaneous.

  • Fans of the rival teams clashed outside the stadium after the match

Examples of usage

  • The knights dueled with swords in the medieval tournament.
  • He dueled with his rival to prove his skills.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The concept dates back to ancient times, with organized fights recorded in cultures like the Romans and early medieval Europe.
  • Dueling was often a way to defend one's honor and could be seen as a legal practice in some societies until the 19th century.

Literature

  • Dueling is a popular theme in literature, symbolizing conflict and personal honor, as seen in works like 'The Three Musketeers'.
  • Famous literary duels often depict the struggle between good and evil, showcasing characters' moral dilemmas.

Pop Culture

  • Dueling has been dramatized in countless movies and TV shows, portraying intense rivalries, like the classic sword fights in 'The Princess Bride'.
  • Modern adaptations sometimes use 'rap battles' or competitive games as a non-violent twist on the traditional duel.

Psychology

  • Dueling can represent deeper psychological conflicts, showcasing how individuals might confront their fears or challenges.
  • The act of dueling can be seen as a reflection of human aggression and the innate desire to resolve conflicts physically or symbolically.

Science

  • Studies on human behavior and competition suggest that dueling can affect social hierarchies and power dynamics.
  • Researchers have explored the impacts of victory and defeat in duels on personal identity and reputation within communities.

Translations

Translations of the word "duel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 duelo

🇮🇳 द्वंद्वयुद्ध

🇩🇪 Duell

🇮🇩 duel

🇺🇦 дуель

🇵🇱 pojedynek

🇯🇵 決闘 (けっとう)

🇫🇷 duel

🇪🇸 duelo

🇹🇷 düello

🇰🇷 결투 (gyeoltu)

🇸🇦 مبارزة

🇨🇿 souboj

🇸🇰 súboj

🇨🇳 决斗 (juédòu)

🇸🇮 dvoboj

🇮🇸 einvígi

🇰🇿 жекпе-жек

🇬🇪 დუელი

🇦🇿 duel

🇲🇽 duelo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,403, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.