a conflict

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a conflict" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer generally to a situation in which two parties disagree or struggle against one another, often leading to a dispute. Example: The two countries engaged in a conflict over control of the region.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's creating a conflict".

The New York Times

"There was a conflict.

The New York Times - Sports

You have a conflict".

The New York Times

It's a "conflict of interest".

The New York Times

So a conflict was born.

The New York Times

This is a conflict, too.

Independent

I am a conflict photographer.

Independent

This is a conflict!

The New Yorker

A conflict by proxy.

The Guardian - Tech

"Is this a conflict?

The New York Times

There's a conflict here.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about conflicts, be specific about the nature of the disagreement, the parties involved, and the potential consequences. Context is key for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a conflict" without providing sufficient context. Vague references can confuse readers. Instead of saying "There's a conflict", specify the issue: "There's a conflict over resource allocation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a conflict" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a specific instance of disagreement, struggle, or opposition. As Ludwig AI states, it refers to a situation in which two parties disagree or struggle against one another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a conflict" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase to describe a specific instance of disagreement or opposition. Ludwig confirms its correctness and general usability. Its prevalence across diverse sources, particularly in news and media, underscores its broad applicability. When using the phrase, it's important to provide context to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "a disagreement" or "a dispute" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. While generally neutral in register, the context dictates the overall formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disagreement

Focuses more on the difference of opinion rather than the active struggle.

a dispute

Implies a formal disagreement, often involving legal or official processes.

a clash

Suggests a brief but intense confrontation.

a struggle

Emphasizes the effort and difficulty involved in overcoming opposition.

a confrontation

Highlights a direct and often hostile encounter.

a rivalry

Indicates an ongoing competitive relationship.

a feud

Suggests a long-standing and bitter dispute, often between families or groups.

an opposition

Highlights the act of resisting or going against something.

a tension

Implies a state of strained relations or unease.

an antagonism

Suggests a deep-seated hostility or dislike.

FAQs

How can I use "a conflict" in a sentence?

You can use "a conflict" to refer to a disagreement or struggle between people or groups. For example, "The negotiations failed due to "a conflict" of interest."

What are some alternatives to saying "a conflict"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a disagreement", "a dispute", or "a clash" to describe a similar situation.

Is it better to use "conflict" or "a conflict"?

The choice depends on the context. "Conflict" refers to the general state of opposition, while "a conflict" refers to a specific instance of it. For example, "There is conflict in the region" vs. "There was "a conflict" over territory."

What is a "conflict of interest"?

A "conflict of interest" is a situation in which someone's personal interests could compromise their judgment or decisions in a professional role. It is often regulated to ensure fairness and transparency.