create a conflict

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create a conflict" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of instigating or causing a disagreement or clash between parties, ideas, or characters. Example: "The author decided to create a conflict between the protagonist and the antagonist to drive the story forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In other words, create a conflict.

The Guardian - Film

"We don't want to create a conflict," Mr. Nasrallah said.

The New York Times

This could create a conflict of interest, the judge said.

The New York Times

But could that create a conflict of interest?

The Guardian - Business

"There's no need to create a conflict, even if we're not here to hide our divergences".

The New York Times

The relations between lenders and universities may create a conflict of interest, Mr. Durbin wrote.

The New York Times

"The danger is that this guy uses these people to create a conflict".

The New York Times

"But certain jobs do create a conflict, if not the appearance of a conflict".

The New York Times

But then I thought no, because once he finds out it might just create a conflict".

The New York Times - Sports

Does the bylaw create a conflict of interest for the municipality?

Harvard University

"Their aim is clear – to create a conflict situation in this region," the FSB said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "create a conflict" in storytelling, ensure the conflict serves a purpose, such as developing characters or advancing the plot.

Common error

Avoid using "create a conflict" repeatedly in your writing without considering more specific verbs like "instigate", "provoke", or "trigger", which can add greater precision and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create a conflict" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of initiating or causing a state of discord or disagreement. Ludwig AI examples show its usage in various contexts, from political tensions to internal character struggles, confirming its active, causative role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "create a conflict" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes the action of initiating or causing a disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its use spans various contexts, from news reports to academic analyses, though it is most prevalent in news and media. Alternatives such as "spark a conflict" or "generate a conflict" can provide more specific nuances depending on the intended meaning. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intentional or unintentional instigation of discord.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generate a conflict

Similar to "create a conflict", but emphasizes the process of bringing a conflict into existence.

produce a conflict

Similar to "create a conflict", focusing on the outcome or result of actions.

spark a conflict

Emphasizes the sudden or initial beginning of a conflict.

instigate a conflict

Suggests a deliberate act of initiating a conflict, often with a negative connotation.

initiate a conflict

Highlights the act of beginning or starting a conflict.

foment a conflict

Implies stirring up or promoting conflict, often secretly or indirectly.

trigger a conflict

Highlights the event or action that sets off a pre-existing tension or disagreement.

provoke a conflict

Focuses on actions that incite a conflict, often through deliberate antagonism.

engineer a conflict

Suggests a carefully planned and executed effort to create a conflict, often for strategic purposes.

develop a conflict

Focuses on the gradual unfolding and escalation of a conflict over time.

FAQs

How can I use "create a conflict" in a sentence?

You can use "create a conflict" to describe the act of causing a disagreement, dispute, or struggle. For instance, "The new policy could "create a conflict" between management and employees."

What's the difference between "create a conflict" and "resolve a conflict"?

"Create a conflict" refers to initiating or causing a conflict, while "resolve a conflict" means finding a solution or ending a conflict.

Which is a better phrase, "create a conflict" or "avoid a conflict"?

The choice depends on the context. "Create a conflict" is used when describing the start of a disagreement, while "avoid a conflict" implies preventing a disagreement from happening.

What are some synonyms for "create a conflict"?

Synonyms for "create a conflict" include "spark a conflict", "instigate a conflict", or "generate a conflict".