ferocious battle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ferocious battle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a particularly intense or fierce conflict, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense. Example: "The two armies clashed in a ferocious battle that lasted for days, leaving destruction in its wake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

After a ferocious battle, defence will be cut by 7.5%.

The Economist

Whatever the true figure, it was a ferocious battle.

The Economist

It shows archetypal male figures endlessly entangled in ferocious battle.

The New York Times - Arts

Twodays of ferocious battle during the American invasion had leftcarnage and confusion in its wake.

The New York Times - Books

At least 188 Taliban prisoners died in the ferocious battle that unfolded.

The New York Times

Her warnings also help them emerge victorious from a ferocious battle with the Indians.

The Guardian - Film

"He may be the only man perfectly equipped the win the ferocious battle ahead," said McMaster.

The Guardian

By the summer of 2003, a ferocious battle known locally as 'World War Three' engulfed Monrovia.

The Guardian

"We will engage in a ferocious battle," the defense minister, Moïse Lida Kouassi, said today.

The New York Times

Several dozen fighters were killed in Tuesday's ferocious battle for Bab al-Aziziya, Gaddafi's grandiose complex.

The Guardian

Instead, after a ferocious battle which ended in stalemate, the Republicans held their position, the reservoir and Madrid.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ferocious battle" when you want to emphasize the extreme intensity and violence of a conflict. Ensure the context warrants such a strong descriptor.

Common error

Avoid using "ferocious battle" to describe minor disagreements or competitions. The phrase implies a significant level of intensity and violence, so it's inappropriate for less serious situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ferocious battle" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "ferocious" modifies the noun "battle". It describes a particular kind of battle, emphasizing its intensity and violence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ferocious battle" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe an extremely intense and violent conflict. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for both literal and metaphorical contexts, primarily found in News & Media. While "ferocious battle" is widely accepted, remember to consider the emotional weight behind the phrase and ensure the context warrants such strength. Alternative phrases like "intense battle" or "savage battle" can offer similar meanings with slight nuances. Use "ferocious battle" when you want to emphasize the extreme intensity and violence of a conflict.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense battle

Emphasizes the high degree of concentration and force involved.

savage battle

Highlights the brutality and lack of restraint in the conflict.

violent battle

Focuses on the physical harm and aggression of the conflict.

brutal battle

Similar to savage, emphasizing the merciless and harsh nature of the conflict.

bitter battle

Emphasizes the emotional intensity and resentment involved.

vicious battle

Highlights the malicious intent and cruelty displayed during the conflict.

vigorous battle

Focuses on the energy and forcefulness with which the battle is conducted.

severe battle

Emphasizes the gravity and the potential for serious consequences.

fierce conflict

Uses a more general term ("conflict") while still emphasizing the intensity.

pitched battle

Implies a direct and decisive engagement between opposing forces.

FAQs

How can I use "ferocious battle" in a sentence?

You can use "ferocious battle" to describe an extremely intense and violent conflict, such as, "The troops engaged in a ferocious battle for control of the city".

What are some alternatives to "ferocious battle"?

Some alternatives to "ferocious battle" include "intense battle", "savage battle", or "violent battle", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "ferocious battle" too strong of a phrase to use in business writing?

While "ferocious battle" is generally appropriate, consider whether a less intense phrase like "vigorous battle" or "intense battle" might be more suitable for professional contexts.

What's the difference between "ferocious battle" and "bitter battle"?

"Ferocious battle" emphasizes the intensity and violence of a conflict, while "bitter battle" highlights the emotional resentment and animosity involved.