clash

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

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

When using "clash", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately conveys the intensity and nature of the conflict or disagreement. It often implies a sudden, forceful encounter.

Common error

Avoid using "clash" excessively in academic or professional contexts where a more neutral term like "conflict" or "disagreement" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The word "clash" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it describes a conflict, collision, or disagreement. As a verb, it signifies the act of coming into conflict or collision. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and versatile usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sport

30%

General

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clash" is a versatile term used to describe various forms of conflict, from physical collisions to ideological disagreements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts. It's particularly common in news and media reporting on sports, politics, and current events. While its formality is generally neutral, consider the specific nuance required for academic or professional writing. Related terms like "conflict", "confrontation", and "collision" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings, with slight differences in emphasis. Remember to consider the intensity and nature of the situation you are describing when deciding whether to use "clash".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conflict

Indicates a more general state of opposition or struggle, potentially less direct than a "clash".

confrontation

Suggests a face-to-face encounter, often implying a direct challenge or argument.

collision

Focuses on the physical impact or direct encounter between two or more things.

disagreement

Highlights a difference in opinion or understanding, often less intense than a "clash".

dispute

Implies a formal argument or debate, often involving legal or official procedures.

skirmish

Refers to a brief, unplanned fight or confrontation, often between opposing military forces or groups.

argument

Focuses on a verbal disagreement or debate, often involving strong emotions or differing viewpoints.

encounter

Describes a chance meeting or confrontation, not necessarily hostile or negative.

head-on collision

Emphasizes the direct and forceful nature of the impact or confrontation.

discord

Highlights a lack of harmony or agreement, often leading to tension or conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "clash" in a sentence?

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

What can I say instead of "clash"?

You can use alternatives like "conflict", "confrontation", or "collision" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "clash of cultures" or "cultural conflict"?

Both "clash of cultures" and "cultural conflict" are correct and usable, although "cultural conflict" may be perceived as more formal.

What's the difference between "clash" and "conflict"?

"Clash" often implies a more sudden and forceful encounter, while "conflict" can refer to a more prolonged or underlying state of disagreement.