conflictual

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "conflictual" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is characterized by or involves conflict. For example, "The relationship between the two countries was conflictual for many years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

It is no contradiction, he argues, that "a political culture which extols the rational, orderly mind should also value the power of dissent so highly" since "it stems from an all-pervading involvement in disputing the conflictual merits of 'for' and 'against'".However, despite his efforts to explain contradictions neatly, Mr Kedward's story in some ways gets lost in its complexity.

The Economist

In what is certain to be one of its most controversial findings, the report says security forces not only repeatedly allowed these gangs (commonly referred to as "colectivos") to attack protesters but "in some cases…openly collaborated" with them.Human Rights Watch has had a conflictual relationship with the Venezuelan government.

The Economist

The reinstated capital is a conflictual place.

The Economist

When voters' preferences are not so conflictual (note that the three voters have different first, second, and third choices when, as here, there is a Condorcet voting paradox), the paradox of the chair's position does not occur, making this paradox the exception rather than the rule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In France organizations similar to think tanks are related to the government in Paris and have a conflictual but subordinate relationship with political parties.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Low levels of conflict, even in declining industries, are characteristic of the generally cooperative relationship between managers and workers in Japan's large private-sector firms (it should be noted that these relations are more conflictual in the public sector).

Encyclopedia Britannica

I posted last week, in another context, about Pialat's conflictual relationship with the filmmakers of the French New Wave and his contempt for their cinephilic preoccupations, and also about his own dissatisfaction with himself and his career (he made only ten feature films, plus the mini-series "La Maison des Bois").

The New Yorker

The dominant theme of these years was Isherwood's conflictual relationship with Don Bachardy.

The New York Times - Books

Now is the time for the North Koreans to change their mode towards more a conflictual approach," a former South Korean official and government adviser predicted.

The Guardian

The paradox is that all this is depoliticizing public debate, precisely as campaigns become more bitter and conflictual.

The Guardian - Opinion

The government of France is a unique hybrid of presidential and parliamentary systems that reflect rich political traditions and culture - The conflictual political culture of France currently is somewhat more consensual than in the past.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interpersonal relationships, consider if "conflictual" accurately captures the dynamic, or if terms like "strained" or "difficult" are more appropriate. Remember that "conflictual" suggests an active, ongoing state of conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "conflictual" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler words like "conflicting" or "disagreeing" are often better choices.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "conflictual" primarily functions to describe a noun as being characterized by conflict or involving conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. It suggests a state or situation filled with disagreement and opposition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Reference

10%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "conflictual" accurately describes something characterized by conflict, as validated by Ludwig AI. Primarily appearing in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science, its function is to highlight tension, disagreement and antagonism in a formal context. While grammatically correct, it should be used judiciously, favouring simpler terms in informal settings. Alternatives like "contentious" and "antagonistic" offer similar meanings. Consider "conflictual" when precise descriptions are necessary in formal communications. When seeking alternatives or grasping the best use-cases, consult the numerous examples provided by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contentious

This term suggests a tendency to cause arguments or disputes.

antagonistic

Implies active hostility or opposition.

belligerent

Suggests a readiness to fight or engage in war.

combative

Indicates a willingness to fight or argue.

disputatious

Characterized by argument or debate.

discordant

Lacking harmony or agreement.

divided

Split or separated into opposing groups.

at odds

In a state of disagreement or conflict.

fractious

Irritable and likely to cause disruption.

hostile

Unfriendly and aggressive.

FAQs

How is "conflictual" used in a sentence?

The adjective "conflictual" describes something characterized by conflict. For example, "The two nations had a "conflictual relationship" for decades."

What's the difference between "conflictual" and "conflicting"?

"Conflictual" describes a state of ongoing conflict, whereas "conflicting" describes things that are in opposition. A "conflictual situation" is full of conflict, while "conflicting reports" simply disagree.

What words are similar to "conflictual"?

Similar words include "contentious", "antagonistic", and "belligerent". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "conflictual" a formal word?

Yes, "conflictual" is generally considered a formal word. It's best suited for academic, professional, or other contexts where precise language is valued. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives are often preferred.