The phrase "is at odds" refers to a disagreement or conflict between two or more parties. The spelling of this phrase may appear confusing, as the letters "odds" do not correspond directly to their pronunciation. Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the correct pronunciation of "odds" is /ɒdz/. The spelling likely originated from the Middle English word "odde," meaning "uneven" or "different," which later evolved to mean "strange" or "unusual," and eventually took on the meaning of "conflict" or "disagreement" in the phrase "at odds."
The phrase "is at odds" is an idiomatic expression that conveys a state of disagreement, conflict, or opposition between two or more individuals, groups, ideas, or situations. When two or more entities are "at odds," they hold conflicting opinions, beliefs, perspectives, or objectives and find themselves on opposing sides or in opposition to one another. This state of disagreement may exist due to contrasting interests, goals, values, ideologies, or principles that cannot easily be reconciled. The term "odds" in this context refers to the discrepancy or disparity between the conflicting parties.
The phrase can be used to describe various scenarios, such as personal conflicts between individuals, adversarial relationships between organizations or nations, or even contradictory concepts or theories. It suggests a lack of harmony, unity, or agreement, highlighting the contrasting nature of the parties involved. When entities are "at odds," it often implies a degree of tension, discord, or conflict that may require resolution or compromise to reach a common ground.
In summary, "is at odds" is an expression that signifies a state of disagreement, opposition, or conflict between two or more entities, where their opinions, interests, beliefs, or goals are in direct contradiction to one another.