clash of calendars

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clash of calendars" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two or more schedules or timelines conflict with each other. Example: "We experienced a clash of calendars when both meetings were scheduled for the same time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Or a clash of calendars?

The Guardian - Tech

We understand the clash of calendars came about because News chose an earlier date this year to coincide with a visit to Sydney by Rupert Murdoch.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

NEWARK PUBLIC LIBRARY "The Essential Calendar: The Art and Design of Calendars, Thematic, Historic and Artistic Examples".

The New York Times

You can create 3 types of calendars with the following calendar tools.

WikiHow

And no matter how synchronized our intertwined lives have become, a certain amount of calendar clashing is inevitable.

The New York Times

Ajax Amsterdam vs. Feyenoord Once the biggest match of the calendar in the Netherlands, a clash of cultures, of styles, and an extreme challenge to police, this has become an event burdened by memories.

The New York Times - Sports

8.46am GMT Hello OBOers After a five day break that felt closer to an eon in this fixture-stuffed cricket calendar, Australia are back tonight to try and avenge their loss against Pakistan in their opening clash of the tournament.

The Guardian - Sport

Clash of incumbent MT pols.

The New York Times

A classic clash of styles.

Independent

It's a clash of civilizations!

The New Yorker

Clash of the Fashion Houses Simons vs. Slimane.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clash of calendars" to describe situations where multiple events or appointments are unintentionally scheduled at the same time, causing a scheduling conflict.

Common error

While "clash of calendars" is a valid phrase, avoid using it repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "scheduling conflict" or "schedule overlap" to maintain clarity and prevent redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clash of calendars" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific type of scheduling problem. It is typically used to describe a situation where two or more events or appointments are unintentionally scheduled at the same time, causing a conflict. Ludwig indicates that the expression is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clash of calendars" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe overlapping schedules or "scheduling conflicts". Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare, it's primarily found in news and media contexts and maintains a neutral register. Alternative phrases like "schedule overlap" or "calendar conflict" can be used for variety. When faced with a "clash of calendars", proactive communication is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scheduling conflict

Replaces the phrase with a more direct term for conflicting schedules.

calendar conflict

Shortens the phrase while maintaining the core meaning.

schedule overlap

Focuses on the overlapping nature of the conflicting schedules.

conflicting schedules

Highlights the conflict between the schedules themselves.

date collision

Uses 'collision' to metaphorically represent the overlapping of dates.

time conflict

Broader term indicating a conflict in time commitments.

scheduling difficulties

Emphasizes the problems arising from the scheduling issues.

timing clash

Focuses specifically on the clash in timing of events.

event overlap

Describes the overlap of different events due to scheduling.

appointment clash

Specifically refers to the overlapping of appointments.

FAQs

What does "clash of calendars" mean?

A "clash of calendars" refers to a situation where two or more events or appointments are scheduled for the same time, causing a scheduling conflict. It implies an overlap that prevents someone from attending both.

How can I resolve a "clash of calendars"?

Resolving a "clash of calendars" typically involves communicating with the organizers of the conflicting events to see if one can be rescheduled, or prioritizing the event that is most important to attend. Consider using "scheduling conflict" when searching for alternative ways to express the concept.

What can I say instead of "clash of calendars"?

You can use alternatives like "scheduling conflict", "calendar overlap", or "schedule overlap" depending on the context.

Is "clash of calendars" formal or informal?

"Clash of calendars" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal settings, "scheduling conflict" might be preferred.