in conflict

USAGE SUMMARY

"in conflict" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when two people, groups, or forces are working against each other or disagreeing. For example, "The two sides of the debate were in conflict over the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Many live in countries embroiled in conflict.

Huffington Post

This region is in conflict.

The New York Times

They're not in conflict to me.

The New Yorker

"These two policies weren't in conflict".

The New Yorker

Bottom: Protesters in conflict with police.

The New Yorker

Islam and democracy are not in conflict".

The Economist

Attack could mark major escalation in conflict.

Independent

Certainly I've been in conflict.

The Guardian

"In Conflict": Sept. 18-Nov.

The New York Times

Occasionally animals are in conflict.

The New York Times - Arts

Those ideas are in conflict.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in conflict", clearly specify what entities or ideas are opposing each other to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the policies were in conflict", specify "the economic policies were in conflict with the social policies".

Common error

Avoid embedding "in conflict" within overly long or complicated sentences, which can obscure the core meaning. Simplify the sentence structure to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in conflict" typically functions as a prepositional phrase, often used to modify a noun or pronoun, indicating a state of opposition, disagreement, or struggle. It can describe relationships between entities, ideas, or even internal states, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Huffington Post

2%

TechCrunch

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in conflict" is a grammatically sound and versatile prepositional phrase used to describe opposition, disagreement, or struggle. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It is frequently used in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what entities are opposing each other. While versatile, avoid overuse in overly complex sentences. Related phrases include "at odds", "in disagreement", and "in opposition". Understanding these nuances can enhance your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at odds

Indicates disagreement or opposition, often implying a direct confrontation or clash of interests.

in disagreement

Focuses on the lack of consensus or harmony, highlighting differing opinions or perspectives.

in opposition

Suggests a direct and active resistance to a particular idea, plan, or person.

at loggerheads

Implies a state of intense dispute or deadlock, where parties are unable to find common ground.

embroiled in

Highlights involvement in a difficult or complicated situation, often one involving conflict or controversy.

in contention

Focuses on a point of dispute or argument, suggesting that something is being actively contested.

in discord

Emphasizes a lack of harmony or agreement, often in a broader social or political context.

locked in a struggle

Suggests an ongoing and intense battle or competition between opposing forces.

in a dispute

Highlights a formal disagreement, often involving legal or contractual issues.

in a state of war

Indicates an open and declared hostility, either literally or figuratively.

FAQs

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

You can use "in conflict" to describe situations where there's opposition or disagreement. For example, "Their accounts of the event were "in conflict" with each other".

What are some alternatives to saying "in conflict"?

Alternatives include "at odds", "in disagreement", or "in opposition" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "in conflict with" or just "in conflict"?

While "in conflict" can be used alone, it's often clearer to specify what the subject is in conflict with using "in conflict with". For example, "The proposed changes are "in conflict with" existing regulations" is more explicit.

Can "in conflict" be used to describe internal struggles?

Yes, "in conflict" can describe internal struggles. For example, "He was "in conflict with" his own desires and responsibilities".