major clash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major clash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant conflict or disagreement between parties, ideas, or groups. Example: "The major clash between the two political factions has led to widespread protests across the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Wheelwright was a strong advocate of Cotton's theology, as was Hutchinson, but their views differed from those of the majority of the colony's ministers, and they soon became embroiled in a major clash over this issue.

Wikipedia

Republicans and Democrats predict a major clash with unions on many of these issues.

The New York Times

On Wednesday, after visiting Kosovo, I wrote that it looked set for a "major clash".

The Economist

One former Time Warner executive predicted: "There is going to be a major clash over the church-and-state issue.

The New York Times

He said the soldiers were leaving because there had not been a major clash in the district in 35 days.

The New York Times

The vote set up what promised to be a major clash with the Senate and dashed hopes for passage this year of a new five-year farm bill.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Major clashes have been minimal.

The New York Times

"We are pleased to announce that no major clashes or arrests occurred, and police presence was minimal".

The New York Times

The plans, being prepared in Berlin and Brussels, are certain to trigger bitter resistance and major clashes within the EU.

The Guardian

There have been no major clashes this time, here or anywhere else across Kenya, no blockading of national highways or ripping up of train tracks.

The New York Times

As the ballyhooed public demonstration dissipated Thursday without any major clashes, one middle-aged protestor remarked: "Oh well, the revolution didn't happen.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "significant conflict" or "serious confrontation" for variety, especially when writing longer texts where repetition can be distracting.

Common error

Avoid using "major clash" for minor disagreements. Reserve it for situations where the conflict has substantial consequences or involves significant stakes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major clash" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a significant conflict or disagreement, as evidenced by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "major clash" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a significant conflict or disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and widespread use across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase serves to inform and emphasize the presence of notable disputes. While synonyms like "significant conflict" or "serious confrontation" offer alternatives, it's crucial to reserve "major clash" for situations genuinely warranting such emphasis to avoid overstatement. Its neutral register makes it suitable for professional reporting, underlining its versatility in conveying impactful confrontations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major confrontation

A close synonym, simply replacing "clash" with "confrontation".

serious disagreement

Highlights the gravity and significance of the differing opinions.

significant conflict

Emphasizes the importance and intensity of the conflict.

serious confrontation

Highlights the gravity and potential for escalation in the encounter.

intense dispute

Focuses on the high level of disagreement and tension between parties.

fierce battle

Suggests a more aggressive and combative interaction.

substantial disagreement

Indicates a considerable lack of consensus on important issues.

heated argument

Highlights the emotional intensity and potential for volatile exchanges.

significant altercation

Implies a brief but intense disagreement or physical confrontation.

significant conflict of interest

Focuses on the incompatibility of goals or objectives between parties.

FAQs

How can I use "major clash" in a sentence?

"Major clash" is typically used to describe a significant disagreement or conflict. For example: "The vote set up what promised to be a "major clash" with the Senate".

What can I say instead of "major clash"?

You can use alternatives like "significant conflict", "serious confrontation", or "intense dispute" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "major clash" in formal writing?

Yes, "major clash" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news reporting and analytical contexts. However, consider the tone and audience; alternatives might be preferable in highly sensitive situations.

What distinguishes "major clash" from "minor disagreement"?

"Major clash" implies a substantial and consequential conflict, while "minor disagreement" suggests a trivial difference of opinion. The scale and potential impact differentiate the two.