Clash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Clash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a conflict or disagreement between people, ideas, or forces. Example: "The clash between the two rival teams created an electric atmosphere in the stadium."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fremantle overcame a late scare to beat Sydney by 14 points in their Anzac Day AFL clash at Domain Stadium.

The Guardian - Sport

All who were there have commented on the supercharged atmosphere among a crowd whipped into a frenzy by the nationalism stirred up by their first clash with Albania in Belgrade since 1967.

The Guardian - Sport

The clash between Brienne and Sandor was the best of the season, both a showcase for two very different fighting methods and an acknowledgement that the reality of combat is you have to fight dirty to win.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A clash of fierce rivals, and one of many which will unfold over the next eight days.

The Guardian - Sport

During this period, the club had also progressed into the Skol Cup semi-finals, winning away at Queen of the South, Ayr and Hibernian to set up a clash with Graeme Souness' revamped Rangers.

The Guardian - Sport

Cristiano Ronaldo was on target in the Group B clash at St Jakob-Park with his first-half strike his 71st in the Champions League, taking him level with the former Real Madrid striker, Raúl.

The Guardian - Sport

The IBF welterweight champion stopped Frankie Gavin inside six rounds to retain his title and further the view he is a man who is well and truly for the big time, or to be specific, a clash with Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The Guardian - Sport

The Essendon star appeared dazed by the clash and was briefly off the field.

The Guardian - Sport

Up in the stratosphere, ignored by many voters on the ground, the air war brings the clash of manifestos.

The Guardian - Opinion

We're not sure about the Roxy and Kanye references, but to us this one sounds like Ultravox with Beach Boys harmonies, if you can get your head round such a clash of opposites.

The Guardian - Music

12pm: David Cameron and Ed Miliband clash at PMQs. 1.30pm: George Osborne, the chancellor, and Sir Nicholas Macpherson, the permanent secretary at the Treasury, give evidence to the Scottish affairs committee about Scottish independence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clash" to effectively describe situations involving conflict, disagreement, or the coming together of opposing forces or ideas, whether in physical or abstract contexts.

Common error

While "clash" is versatile, consider more formal alternatives like "conflict" or "dispute" in professional or academic writing to maintain a more serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The word "Clash" functions primarily as a noun denoting a conflict, encounter, or opposition. It can also function as a verb, meaning to come into conflict. This is confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Sport

6%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0.5%

Encyclopedias

0.3%

Wiki

0.2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "Clash" is a versatile word used to describe various forms of conflict, opposition, or disagreement. According to Ludwig, it functions both as a noun and a verb. Its usage is common in news and media, and sports contexts. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, more formal alternatives may be preferable in professional or academic writing. "Clash" can effectively convey a sense of direct encounter or immediate conflict, setting it apart from broader terms like "conflict" or "disagreement".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Conflict

This alternative directly denotes a state of opposition or contention, similar to a "clash" but can also refer to longer-term disputes.

Confrontation

This term emphasizes a face-to-face encounter or direct opposition, highlighting the directness of a "clash".

Dispute

Suggests a disagreement or argument, often implying a formal or legal context, which can sometimes involve a "clash".

Argument

Implies a verbal disagreement or debate, often less physical than a "clash" but still a form of opposition.

Contention

Highlights a point of disagreement or a subject of debate, representing the underlying issue behind a "clash".

Collision

This term focuses on a physical impact or direct encounter, differing from a "clash" which can be non-physical.

Contest

Indicates a competition or struggle for superiority, similar to a "clash" in a competitive context.

Discord

Emphasizes a lack of harmony or agreement, representing the disharmony that can result from a "clash".

Strife

Suggests bitter disagreement or struggle, often involving violence or hostility, similar to an intense "clash".

Opposition

Indicates a state of being against something or someone, representing the fundamental nature of a "clash".

FAQs

How can I use "Clash" in a sentence?

You can use "Clash" to describe a conflict, like "The "clash between the two teams" was intense" or a disagreement, such as "There was a "clash of opinions" during the meeting".

What are some alternatives to the word "Clash"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "conflict", "confrontation", or "dispute" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to use "Clash" in a formal setting?

While "Clash" is widely understood, in formal settings, consider using more precise terms such as "conflict", "disagreement", or "contention" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "Clash" and "Conflict"?

"Clash" often implies a more immediate and direct encounter or opposition, while "conflict" can refer to a more prolonged and ongoing state of disagreement or struggle.