clashed with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clashed with" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that conflicts with or opposes something else. For example: His opinion on the subject clashed with his colleague's.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The demonstrators clashed with police.

The Economist

Their grassy flavor clashed with the jam.

The New York Times - Food

Protesters overturned cars and clashed with police.

The Economist

Years ago, the warriors clashed with spears.

The New York Times

He also clashed with Kentucky fans.

The New York Times - Sports

And protesters clashed with police in Tbilisi.

The Economist

Palestinians clashed with riot police.

The New York Times

In Denver, he clashed with John Elway.

The New York Times - Sports

Throughout his career, he clashed with judges.

The New York Times

Jewish settlers have also clashed with Palestinians.

The Guardian

Activists burned cars and clashed with police.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clashed with" to clearly indicate a direct conflict or disagreement between two or more parties. This phrase is suitable for describing both physical altercations and strong disagreements.

Common error

Avoid using "clashed with" when describing situations where conflict is indirect or not explicitly present. Ensure that the subjects involved are actively engaged in the disagreement or confrontation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clashed with" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, indicating a direct conflict or confrontation between two or more entities. It emphasizes the active engagement in disagreement, often involving opposing actions or viewpoints, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clashed with" is a commonly used phrasal verb that effectively communicates direct conflict or disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, particularly in news and media, where it vividly describes opposing forces. While alternatives like "disagreed strongly with" or "was in conflict with" offer similar meanings, "clashed with" emphasizes a more active and confrontational interaction. When using this phrase, ensure the context involves a direct and explicit conflict to maintain clarity and accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Disagreed strongly with

Emphasizes a difference in opinion leading to disagreement.

Differed sharply with

Highlights a significant divergence in opinion.

Was in conflict with

Highlights an ongoing state of opposition or antagonism.

Was at odds with

Implies a fundamental incompatibility or disagreement.

Had a confrontation with

Focuses on a direct encounter involving opposing viewpoints.

Lock horns with

An idiomatic expression indicating a direct and intense conflict.

Argued intensely with

Focuses on the act of arguing and the high emotional investment.

Opposed vehemently

Emphasizes the intensity and passion behind the disagreement.

Entered into contention with

Suggests a more formal or structured disagreement.

Fell out with

Indicates a breakdown in a previously amicable relationship due to disagreement.

FAQs

How can I use "clashed with" in a sentence?

Use "clashed with" to describe a direct disagreement or conflict between two parties. For example, "The protesters "clashed with" the police."

What's the difference between "clashed with" and "disagreed with"?

"Clashed with" implies a more active and confrontational disagreement than "disagreed with". "Disagreed with" suggests a difference in opinion, while ""clashed with"" suggests a direct conflict.

What can I say instead of "clashed with"?

Alternatives to "clashed with" include "disagreed strongly with", "was in conflict with", or "had a confrontation with", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "clashed with" in formal writing?

Yes, "clashed with" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing conflicts or disagreements in a clear and direct manner. It is commonly used in news reports and academic analyses.