plural conflicts
1
: a struggle for power, property, etc.
an armed conflict
violent border conflicts
a conflict between two gangs
years of armed conflict [=battle]
recent violent conflict in the region
conflict between (forces of) good and evil
2
: strong disagreement between people, groups, etc., that results in often angry argument
Everyone in my family always tries to avoid conflict.
There was inevitable conflict over what to name the group.
They're having serious conflicts over the budget.
A few students are being trained to resolve conflicts [=arguments, disputes] between other students.
3
: a difference that prevents agreement : disagreement between ideas, feelings, etc.
I don't see any conflicts between the theories.
exploring the character's inner conflicts [=ideas, feelings, etc., that disagree with one another]
You'll need to resolve the conflict between your parents' plans for you and your own ambitions.
4
chiefly US
: a situation in which you are unable to do something because there is something else you have already agreed to do at that same time
He has a conflict and can't attend tomorrow's meeting.
a scheduling conflict
conflicts; conflicted; conflicting
1
: to be different in a way that prevents agreement : to say or express opposite things
Their versions of what happened conflict. [=do not agree]
Their goals for the project conflict. [=clash, disagree]
Reports conflicted on how many people were involved.
—often + withHis statement conflicts with the facts.
Their research conflicts with [=contradicts] what other scientists have found.
2
: to happen at the same time as something else
—usually + with
The appointment conflicts with an important meeting I have to go to.
Cite this Entry
“Conflict.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/conflict. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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