conflict

Meanings

• an open clash between two opposing groups (or individuals); --Thomas Paine
  • "the harder the conflict the more glorious the triumph"
• opposition between two simultaneous but incompatible feelings
  • "he was immobilized by conflict and indecision"
• a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war
• a state of opposition between persons or ideas or interests
  • "his conflict of interest made him ineligible for the post"
  • "a conflict of loyalties"
• an incompatibility of dates or events
  • "he noticed a conflict in the dates of the two meetings"
• opposition in a work of drama or fiction between characters or forces (especially an opposition that motivates the development of the plot)
  • "this form of conflict is essential to Mann's writing"
• a disagreement or argument about something important
  • "the familiar conflict between Republicans and Democrats"
• be in conflict
  • "The two proposals conflict!"
• go against, as of rules and laws
  • "This behavior conflicts with our rules"

Synonyms

battle, contravene, difference, difference of opinion, dispute, engagement, fight, infringe, run afoul, struggle