conflict

The word “conflict” means a serious disagreement or clash, especially a prolonged one. In plain terms, a clash — whether it's a war, an argument, or two things that can't both be true or happen at once.

“Conflict” is pronounced KON-flihkt (/ˈkɑn.flɪkt/ in IPA).

Here is “conflict” used in a sentence: “The conflict between the two nations lasted for decades.”

Depending on how it is used, “conflict” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “conflict” comes from Latin. From Latin cōnflīctus, "a striking together" — from conflīgō ("to strike together").

“Conflict” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Conflict” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a serious disagreement or clash, especially a prolonged one.

Conflict is often split into internal, within one person, and external, between people or groups. In storytelling, common types include character versus character, character versus society, character versus nature, and character versus self. In workplaces, it ranges from personality clashes to disputes over goals, resources, or direction.

Not necessarily. While conflict causes stress and can damage relationships, handled well it can surface hidden problems, spark better ideas, and lead to stronger agreements. The outcome depends on how people respond — whether they attack each other or work through the disagreement. Avoiding all conflict can let issues quietly fester.

Conflict is the broad term for any serious clash — between people, groups, or nations — and can be verbal, political, or emotional. War is one extreme form: an armed, organised conflict between states or large groups. All wars are conflicts, but the vast majority of conflicts never involve fighting.

Common approaches include open communication, listening to understand each side, finding common ground, and compromising. In formal settings, mediation or negotiation brings in a neutral third party. The goal is usually a solution both sides can accept, rather than one side winning outright, which tends to leave resentment behind.