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conflict

noun

/ˈkɒn flɪkt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of conflict

A state of discord, disagreement, or opposition between two or more parties or entities.
"Personal values can sometimes create a conflict with professional obligations."

Detailed meaning of conflict

It signifies a clash or struggle arising from incompatible interests, goals, values, or viewpoints. Conflicts can occur at various levels, ranging from personal disputes between individuals to large-scale confrontations between nations. They can arise from differences in beliefs, ideologies, resources, power dynamics, or competing interests. Conflicts often involve a sense of tension, hostility, or competition, and they can manifest in different forms, including verbal arguments, physical confrontations, or even wars. Resolving conflicts requires effective communication, negotiation, and sometimes the involvement of impartial mediators or arbitrators to find mutually acceptable solutions. Conflicts can have both positive and negative impacts, as they can lead to growth, innovation, and change, but they can also result in harm, division, and destruction if not managed or resolved constructively.

Example sentences containing conflict

1. The ongoing conflict between the two countries has caused many people to flee their homes.
2. The movie’s plot centers around a conflict between rival gangs.
3. The mediator was brought in to resolve the conflict between the two employees.
4. The conflict in the novel reaches its climax when the protagonist faces his nemesis.
5. The book provides an in-depth analysis of the historical conflict in the Middle East.
6. The labor union and the management have been engaged in a conflict over wages.

History and etymology of conflict

The noun 'conflict' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'conflictus,' which is a past participle of 'confligere.' 'Confligere' is a combination of 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'fligere' meaning 'to strike' or 'to clash.' This etymology vividly conveys the essence of 'conflict' as a state of discord or opposition where different parties or entities come 'together' in a clash or striking of opposing interests or viewpoints. It implies a collision of ideas, values, or objectives that lead to disagreement or tension. The term 'conflict' retains its etymological connection to the concept of opposing forces or interests coming together in a contentious manner, reflecting its fundamental nature as a clash or disagreement.

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Further usage examples of conflict

1. The debate team discussed ways to resolve global conflicts without violence.
2. The conflict of interest in the case led the judge to recuse himself.
3. The family conflict escalated into a heated argument during the dinner.
4. Her internal conflict between choosing a career or family left her indecisive for years.
5. The class was divided into groups to analyze different world conflicts and their resolutions.
6. The conflict between the two nations escalated rapidly.
7. Workplace conflicts can hinder productivity and morale.
8. The family tried to resolve their conflicts peacefully.
9. International conflicts often require diplomatic solutions.
10. Political conflicts can polarize entire societies.
11. Conflicts arise when interests clash.
12. The conflict of interest was a major concern in the case.
13. Ethnic conflicts have plagued the region for years.
14. The conflict resolution training improved team dynamics.
15. Conflicts can have far-reaching economic consequences.
16. Media coverage can exacerbate conflicts.
17. The conflict within the organization led to resignations.
18. Cultural conflicts can be challenging to navigate.
19. Conflicts over resources are common in nature.
20. The conflict of opinions sparked a lively debate.
21. Conflicts of ideology can divide communities.
22. Conflicts often require compromise to reach resolution.
23. The conflict between science and religion continues.
24. The conflict's root causes are complex and deep-seated.
25. Conflicts can be catalysts for social change.