combating each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "combating each other" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two or more entities are actively opposing or fighting against one another. Example: "The two rival factions have been combating each other for control of the territory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The impasse in peace talks did not prompt divided Palestinians to reunite, making plain that for now they are more interested in combating each other than fighting Israel.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

According to separate studies, rivaling individuals may have combated each other with quick head blows, by slow pushes with the upper sides of their skulls, or by ramming each other head-on, using their horns as shock absorbers.

Wikipedia

Critically, though, the Virginian group has yet to demonstrate that simply having more white cells actually gives promiscuous animals an edge in combating infections.And other explanations are possible.

The Economist

They hold promise for repairing and replacing damaged organs and also combating, among other things, Parkinson's disease, from which the pope himself suffers.

The New York Times

For the time being, however, those fighting the trade in Asia are often under-resourced and responsible for combating many other types of smuggling, according to campaigners like Ms. Majumdar of Freeland Foundation.

The New York Times

However, it is also an important support for combating two other problems, experienced by many science teachers who contact NCSE for advice: parents who want their students to be able to "opt out" from evolution-related lessons and creationist teachers of non-science subjects who attack evolution in their own classes.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Others wanted it more connected with Asia, and to take a stronger role in combating HIV and other epidemics in the Pacific.

The Economist

Other factors, such as the weakness of Turkey's trade unions – bodies that play an important role in combating bullying in other countries (Hoel and Beale, 2006; Sheehan et al., 1999) – are also pertinent to contexts such as the USA, in which collective bargaining is constantly under threat (Slaughter, 2007).

Human Relations

Mr Gore promised that the American government would commit a further $150m next year to combating AIDS and other diseases in the world's poorest countries, mostly in Africa.

The Economist

Now the industry's army of lobbyists and researchers, who have proven adept at combating other government regulatory efforts, find themselves unexpectedly scrambling to find the right counterattack to this new front in a growing national debate over the health of their products.

The New York Times

While Labor's scheme commits more funding, it is worth pondering how much existing resources are already poured into dementia initiatives (which are in reality, no novel idea) in which case resources may be better directed on combating other issues affecting senior Australian (eg, welfare and better use of human capital).

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "combating each other" to clearly convey reciprocal conflict or opposition. Consider the intensity of the conflict when choosing this phrase over alternatives like "opposing each other" or "competing against each other".

Common error

Avoid using "combating each other" when the situation involves minor disagreements or simple competition. Reserve it for scenarios with significant antagonism or active conflict.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "combating each other" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a verb phrase describing a reciprocal action. It illustrates a state of mutual conflict or opposition, as affirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "combating each other" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe reciprocal conflict or opposition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While relatively rare in occurrence, the phrase appears across various contexts, including news media and general discussions. Alternatives such as "fighting each other" or "opposing each other" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. When using this phrase, ensure that the context involves a significant level of antagonism or active struggle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fighting each other

This is a more direct and common synonym, implying physical or verbal conflict.

battling each other

Suggests a sustained and intense conflict, often with high stakes.

opposing each other

Indicates a stance of disagreement or resistance, not necessarily involving direct conflict.

competing against each other

Highlights the aspect of striving for a common goal, where only one can succeed.

clashing with each other

Implies a brief, intense confrontation or disagreement.

contending with each other

Suggests a more formal and prolonged struggle or debate.

rivaling each other

Emphasizes the competitive nature of the relationship, often between equals.

in conflict with each other

A more descriptive and less active way of expressing opposition.

locked in a struggle

This phrase is metaphorical and suggest a stalemate situation in the act of "combating".

at war with each other

Implies a state of open and often violent conflict.

FAQs

What does "combating each other" mean?

The phrase "combating each other" describes a situation where two or more entities are actively fighting or opposing one another. It suggests an ongoing conflict or struggle.

What are some alternatives to "combating each other"?

You can use alternatives like "fighting each other", "battling each other", or "opposing each other" depending on the context.

Is "combating each other" formal or informal?

"Combating each other" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it might be perceived as slightly more formal than simply "fighting each other".

How can I use "combating each other" in a sentence?

You might say, "The two armies were "combating each other" fiercely" or "The political parties are "combating each other" over the new legislation".