at war
The phrase "at war" can describe both literal armed conflict and intense non-physical disputes.
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Definition
B2Military
(literal)Engaged in active armed conflict between nations or groups.
Example
- The two nations have been at war for over a decade.
- Soldiers on both sides were exhausted from being at war for so long.
B2General
(figurative)In a state of strong conflict or opposition, not involving physical combat.
Example
- The two companies are at war over market dominance.
- She felt like she was at war with herself, struggling to make a decision.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "at war":
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