CROSS SWORDS Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "cross swords" is an idiomatic expression that has two primary meanings. In a literal sense, it refers to the action of engaging in a sword fight or fencing duel. Historically, individuals used swords to engage in combat or settle personal disputes. Thus, when two people cross swords, they engage in a physical confrontation using swords or similar weapons, with the intent to harm or defeat the other.
In a figurative sense, "cross swords" has a non-literal connotation. It symbolizes a verbal or intellectual clash between two individuals or groups. When people cross swords in this context, they engage in a debate, argument, or disagreement, usually characterized by strong opinions or conflicting viewpoints. This expression suggests a confrontational and vigorous exchange, where both parties fiercely defend their positions and actively challenge the other's perspective.
The phrase "cross swords" implies a sense of conflict, disagreement, or rivalry, irrespective of the literal or figurative meaning. It portrays a clash of ideas, opinions, or physical abilities. Therefore, it is often used metaphorically to describe various situations where two parties find themselves in opposition, whether through a physical confrontation or a verbal disagreement.
Common Misspellings for CROSS SWORDS
- xross swords
- vross swords
- fross swords
- dross swords
- ceoss swords
- cdoss swords
- cfoss swords
- ctoss swords
- c5oss swords
- c4oss swords
- criss swords
- crkss swords
- crlss swords
- crpss swords
- cr0ss swords
- cr9ss swords
- croas swords
- crozs swords
- croxs swords
- crods swords
Etymology of CROSS SWORDS
The phrase "cross swords" originates from the literal sense of two warriors engaging in a duel or battle, wherein their swords cross paths multiple times during the combat. This idiom, first recorded in the early 17th century, has since then been used metaphorically to describe any form of conflict or confrontation between two individuals or groups. The etymology of the phrase is relatively straightforward, as it directly refers to the physical action of swords crossing during a fight.
Idioms with the word CROSS SWORDS
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cross swords (with sb)
The idiom "cross swords (with someone)" means to engage in a strong argument or dispute with someone, often in a confrontational or challenging manner. It implies a clash of opinions or ideas accompanied by a verbal or intellectual battle between two individuals or groups.
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cross swords (with sm)
The idiom "cross swords with (someone)" means to engage in a dispute, argument, or conflict with someone. It often implies a confrontational or adversarial interaction.
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cross swords with
The idiom "cross swords with" means to engage in a heated or confrontational debate, argument, or conflict with someone. It is often used to describe a situation where two or more individuals or groups are at odds with each other and actively opposing or challenging each other's ideas, opinions, or actions. The phrase alludes to the imagery of two opposing individuals engaging in a sword fight.
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cross swords (with somebody)
The idiom "cross swords (with somebody)" refers to engaging in an argument, dispute, or confrontation with someone. It implies a clash of ideas, opinions, or opposing views leading to a heated exchange or disagreement between two or more individuals.
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cross swords with (one)
The idiom "cross swords with (one)" means to have a verbal or intellectual confrontation or disagreement with someone. It refers to a conflict or argument between two individuals where they engage in a heated debate or clash of opinions. This idiom often implies a challenging or adversarial relationship between the individuals involved.
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cross swords (with someone)
The idiom "cross swords (with someone)" means to engage in a heated argument, debate, or conflict with someone, often involving strong opposing views or positions. It implies a confrontational or combative exchange of words or actions between two individuals. The idiom draws its imagery from sword fighting, where blades clash in direct opposition.
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cross swords
The idiom "cross swords" means to engage in a confrontation or argument. It comes from the image of two people crossing swords in a duel, symbolizing a conflict or disagreement between them.
