clashes of civilizations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clashes of civilizations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe conflicts or tensions between different cultural or social groups, often in a historical or political context. Example: "The book explores the concept of clashes of civilizations and how they have shaped global relations throughout history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz talk about clashes of civilizations and the "lunacy" of admitting refugees from the region.

The New Yorker

To its backers in Europe, this Turkey can no longer look much like an idealized bridge to a world beyond clashes of civilizations.

The New York Times

What better way to assert my independence in a flat, crowded and hot world that suffers from clashes of civilizations, the end of history and other tired metaphors masquerading as big ideas?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Even George W. Bush disavowed the clash-of-civilizations argument.

The New Yorker

This compelling account of the Crusades era debunks the clash-of-civilizations paradigm in which the period is typically cast.

The New Yorker

Is the clash-of-civilizations narrative, long favored on the right, starting to drift into the mainstream?

The New Yorker

Clash of civilizations?

The New York Times

It's a clash of civilizations!

The New Yorker

"Or a clash of civilizations.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This is a clash of civilizations.

The Guardian

Talk about a clash of civilizations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "clashes of civilizations", ensure you provide specific examples or context to illustrate the nature and scope of the conflict you're describing.

Common error

Avoid using "clashes of civilizations" as a blanket term for all international conflicts. Not every disagreement between nations or groups constitutes a civilizational clash; be sure to consider the underlying causes and motivations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clashes of civilizations" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, describing a state of conflict or tension between different cultures or societies. Ludwig confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clashes of civilizations" is a noun phrase used to describe conflicts arising from cultural differences. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig, it's essential to use the phrase with caution, avoiding overgeneralizations and providing specific examples to support your analysis. Related phrases like "cultural conflicts" and "cross-cultural tensions" can offer alternative perspectives on the same topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cultural clashes

A more concise and common way to describe conflicts arising from cultural differences.

cultural conflicts

Focuses specifically on the conflict between cultures, omitting the broader term "civilizations".

civilizational fault lines

Emphasizes divisions and potential for conflict between civilizations.

intercivilizational conflict

A more formal and academic way to refer to conflict between civilizations.

cross-cultural tensions

Highlights the tension between different cultures rather than open conflict.

struggle for cultural dominance

Highlights the power dynamic and competition between cultures.

cultural misunderstandings

Emphasizes the role of misunderstanding in causing conflict.

ideological conflicts

Focuses on clashes of ideologies rather than cultures.

global conflicts

A very broad term that encompasses "clashes of civilizations" but also includes other types of conflicts.

international disputes

Focuses on formal disputes between nations, which may or may not stem from civilizational differences.

FAQs

What does the term "clashes of civilizations" refer to?

The term "clashes of civilizations" typically refers to conflicts arising from fundamental differences in cultural values, religious beliefs, and historical experiences between different civilizations or cultural groups.

Is "clashes of civilizations" a neutral term?

While the term itself may seem neutral, it's often used within a specific theoretical framework that can be interpreted as biased or deterministic. Consider using alternative phrases like "cultural conflicts" or "cross-cultural tensions" to avoid potential connotations.

How can I use "clashes of civilizations" in a sentence?

You might use "clashes of civilizations" to describe historical events, analyze current geopolitical tensions, or discuss theories about the future of international relations. For instance: "Some analysts believe that the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are examples of "clashes of civilizations".

What is an alternative to "clashes of civilizations" that doesn't imply inevitable conflict?

Consider using terms like "cultural exchange", "cultural dialogue", or "intercultural relations" to emphasize cooperation and understanding rather than conflict.