C1noun2K

Clash

UK /["/klæʃ/"]/US /["/klæʃ/"]/

Definition

a short fight between two groups of people

In simple words: to hit or come into conflict with something or someone

Examples

  • There was a significant clash between the two rival factions during the protest.
  • The clash of ideas led to a productive discussion in the seminar.
  • The musician's aggressive style seems to clash with the soft melodies of the orchestra.
  • In the game, there's a major clash at the end where the heroes confront the villain.
  • During the clash, both sides suffered heavy losses and were forced to retreat.

Usage notes

Use 'clash' when describing conflicts or something that does not match well. It is not appropriate for formal settings when discussing disagreements; consider using 'disagreement' instead.

Grammar pattern

clash + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'cash' — imagine cash colliding in a fight over money!

Collocations

  • angry
  • bitter
  • fierce
  • lead to
  • provoke
  • avoid
  • break out
  • erupt
  • occur
  • in a/​the clash
  • clash between
  • clash of
  • a clash of cultures
  • a clash of interests
  • a clash of wills
  • angry
  • bitter
  • fierce
  • lead to
  • provoke
  • avoid
  • break out
  • erupt
  • occur
  • in a/​the clash
  • clash between
  • clash of
  • a clash of cultures
  • a clash of interests
  • a clash of wills
  • angry
  • bitter
  • fierce
  • lead to
  • provoke
  • avoid
  • break out
  • erupt
  • occur
  • in a/​the clash
  • clash between
  • clash of
  • a clash of cultures
  • a clash of interests
  • a clash of wills

Synonyms

  • conflict
  • conflict

Antonyms

  • agree
  • align
  • unite

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'crash' (a collision) and 'clash' (a conflict).
  • Using 'clash' incorrectly in formal writing.
  • Saying 'clash with' and forgetting to include the object.