sworn enemies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sworn enemies" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two people or groups who are in conflict or who have a long-standing animosity towards one another. For example, "The two nations had been sworn enemies for centuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

These are Iran's sworn enemies".

The New York Times

ONCE they were sworn enemies.

The Times

We should be sworn enemies.

The Guardian - Sport

They became his sworn enemies.

Britannica

Too many sworn enemies, frankly.

The Guardian - Books

Two years ago they were sworn enemies.

The Guardian

Critics are sworn enemies of the obvious.

The New York Times - Books

We should be sworn enemies by now.

The Guardian

There are fewer close alliances and fewer sworn enemies.

The New York Times

Its sworn enemies are dictatorship, organized religion and sexual exploitation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Stormont is dominated by once-sworn enemies Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sworn enemies", ensure the context clearly establishes the depth and persistence of the animosity between the parties involved. This phrase implies more than just disagreement; it suggests a deep-seated and enduring conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "sworn enemies" to describe minor or temporary disagreements. This phrase carries significant weight and should only be applied when the conflict is truly profound and long-lasting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sworn enemies" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in describing adversarial relationships, confirming its established grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sworn enemies" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a state of deep and lasting animosity. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples from reputable sources, primarily in news and media contexts. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the context accurately reflects the intensity and enduring nature of the conflict. Alternatives like "bitter rivals" or "arch enemies" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using "sworn enemies" for trivial disagreements, as it implies a profound and persistent opposition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bitter rivals

Focuses on the competitive aspect and the intensity of the rivalry.

arch enemies

Emphasizes a primary or chief level of enmity.

implacable foes

Highlights the relentless and unforgiving nature of the opposition.

deadly adversaries

Stresses the potential for lethal conflict between the parties.

irreconcilable opponents

Focuses on the impossibility of resolving the differences between the parties.

long-standing antagonists

Highlights the historical aspect and duration of the animosity.

mortal combatants

Implies a fight to the death or a struggle with very high stakes.

inveterate adversaries

Suggests a deeply ingrained and habitual opposition.

eternal antagonists

Implies that the conflict will never end.

staunch opponents

Emphasizes the firm and unwavering nature of the opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "sworn enemies" in a sentence?

You can use "sworn enemies" to describe entities in a state of deep, enduring conflict. For example, "The two nations have been "sworn enemies" for decades due to territorial disputes."

What's the difference between "sworn enemies" and "bitter rivals"?

"Sworn enemies" implies a deeper, more entrenched animosity than "bitter rivals". Rivals may simply be highly competitive, while sworn enemies harbor intense hatred or a desire for the other's destruction.

What can I say instead of "sworn enemies"?

You can use alternatives like "arch enemies", "implacable foes", or "deadly adversaries" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "sworn enemy" instead of "sworn enemies"?

Yes, "sworn enemy" is the singular form and refers to a single person or entity, while ""sworn enemies"" refers to multiple people or entities.