cross swords
The idiom "cross swords" has origins in literal dueling but is now more commonly used to describe verbal confrontations or disputes.
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Definition
B2General
(figurative, common)To engage in a disagreement or argument with someone.
Example
- During the meeting, the two colleagues crossed swords over the project's direction.
C1Historical
(literal, rare)To fight a duel using swords.
Example
- In the olden days, rivals would often cross swords to settle their differences.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "cross swords":
two swordssword fightingflaming swordsword grassdual-edged swordsword drillput to the swordtwo-edged swordknife fightcross batsword fern