Are you confused about the difference between the words “conflictual” and “conflicting”? You’re not alone. These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two words and provide examples of how to use them correctly.
Let’s define the terms. “Conflictual” is an adjective that describes something that is characterized by conflict or disagreement. It can also refer to a situation or relationship that is likely to result in conflict. “Conflicting,” on the other hand, is an adjective that describes two or more things that are in opposition or disagreement with each other. It can also refer to a situation where two or more parties have different opinions or goals.
While these two words are related, it’s important to use them correctly to avoid confusion. In the following sections, we’ll explore the differences between these two words in more detail.
Define Conflictual
Conflictual is an adjective that describes a situation or relationship that is marked by conflict or disagreement. It refers to a state of being in which there is tension, hostility, or opposition between two or more parties. A conflictual situation may arise due to differences in values, beliefs, interests, or goals. It can manifest in various forms, such as verbal or physical aggression, competition, or resistance. Conflictual situations can be challenging to manage, and they often require careful communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills to resolve.
Define Conflicting
Conflicting is an adjective that refers to two or more things that are in opposition or contradiction with each other. It can describe ideas, opinions, values, or interests that are incompatible or inconsistent. Conflicting views can arise due to differences in perspective, experience, or knowledge. Conflicting information can be confusing or misleading, making it difficult to make informed decisions. In some cases, conflicting interests may result in a conflictual situation, where parties have opposing goals or agendas. To resolve conflicting situations, it is essential to identify the underlying causes of the conflict and find a mutually acceptable solution.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to using words in a sentence, it’s important to understand their meanings and nuances to ensure that your message is clear and concise. In this section, we’ll explore how to properly use the words “conflictual” and “conflicting” in a sentence.
How To Use “Conflictual” In A Sentence
The word “conflictual” is an adjective that describes something that is characterized by conflict or disagreement. Here are some examples of how to use “conflictual” in a sentence:
- The team’s conflictual relationship was causing tension in the workplace.
- The conflictual nature of the negotiations made it difficult to reach a compromise.
- Her conflictual personality often led to arguments with her coworkers.
As you can see, “conflictual” is used to describe situations or relationships that involve conflict or disagreement.
How To Use “Conflicting” In A Sentence
The word “conflicting” is also an adjective, but it describes things that are in opposition to each other or that cannot coexist. Here are some examples of how to use “conflicting” in a sentence:
- The two reports presented conflicting information about the company’s financial status.
- Her desires for a career and a family were conflicting, and she struggled to find a balance.
- The new policy was conflicting with the company’s values, causing tension among employees.
In these examples, “conflicting” is used to describe things that are in opposition to each other or that cannot be reconciled.
By understanding the difference between “conflictual” and “conflicting” and how to use them in a sentence, you can ensure that your writing is clear and effective.
More Examples Of Conflictual & Conflicting Used In Sentences
As we continue to explore the usage of conflictual and conflicting, let’s take a look at some more examples of how these words can be used in sentences. This will help us gain a better understanding of the contexts in which they are appropriate.
Examples Of Using Conflictual In A Sentence
- Their conflictual relationship has been ongoing for years.
- The negotiations between the two countries were quite conflictual.
- There was a conflictual atmosphere in the office after the merger was announced.
- The conflictual nature of their discussions made it difficult to reach a resolution.
- The conflictual dynamics within the team were hindering their progress.
- His conflictual personality often caused tension among his friends.
- There was a conflictual tone to their conversation that made everyone uncomfortable.
- The conflictual nature of their relationship was evident to everyone around them.
- The conflictual dynamics between the two departments were causing problems for the company.
- The conflictual nature of the debate made it difficult to find common ground.
Examples Of Using Conflicting In A Sentence
- Their conflicting opinions made it difficult to come to a decision.
- The two reports had conflicting information.
- Their conflicting schedules made it difficult to find a time to meet.
- There were conflicting accounts of what had happened.
- Their conflicting goals were hindering their progress.
- Their conflicting personalities often clashed.
- The two studies had conflicting results.
- Their conflicting interests made it difficult to work together.
- There were conflicting views on the best way to proceed.
- Their conflicting priorities were causing tension in the team.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words conflictual and conflicting, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, they have different meanings and should not be used in the same way. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these two words:
Using Conflictual And Conflicting As Synonyms
One of the most common mistakes people make is using conflictual and conflicting as synonyms. While they both relate to conflict, they have different meanings. Conflictual means “relating to or involving conflict,” while conflicting means “incompatible or at variance; contradictory.”
For example, you could say “The conflictual relationship between the two countries led to war,” but you could not say “The conflicting relationship between the two countries led to war.” Conflicting implies that the relationship was contradictory, which does not make sense in this context.
Using Conflictual As A Noun
Another mistake people make is using conflictual as a noun. Conflictual is an adjective and should only be used to describe something. For example, you could say “There was a conflictual atmosphere in the room,” but you could not say “There was a conflictual between the two parties.”
Using Conflicting As An Adverb
Conflicting is an adjective and should not be used as an adverb. For example, you could say “Their opinions were conflicting,” but you could not say “They spoke conflictingly.”
Using Conflictual And Conflicting In The Wrong Context
Finally, people often use conflictual and conflicting in the wrong context. For example, you could say “The conflictual nature of the debate made it difficult to come to a resolution,” but you could not say “The conflicting nature of the debate made it difficult to come to a resolution.” Conflicting does not make sense in this context because the nature of the debate was not contradictory.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes
To avoid making these mistakes in the future, it is important to understand the difference between conflictual and conflicting. Take the time to look up the definitions and use them correctly in your writing. If you are unsure, ask someone for help or use a thesaurus to find a more appropriate word.
Context Matters
When it comes to using words like conflictual and conflicting, context is key. Depending on the situation, one word may be more appropriate than the other. Let’s explore some examples of different contexts and how the choice between conflictual and conflicting might change.
Business
In a business setting, the choice between conflictual and conflicting may depend on the nature of the conflict. If the conflict is between two individuals who have a personal issue with each other, it may be more appropriate to use the word conflicting. On the other hand, if the conflict is between two departments that have different goals, the word conflictual may be a better fit.
| Conflict Type | Appropriate Word Choice |
|---|---|
| Personal Conflict | Conflicting |
| Departmental Conflict | Conflictual |
International Relations
When it comes to international relations, the choice between conflictual and conflicting can depend on the severity of the conflict. If there is a minor disagreement between two countries, the word conflicting may be more appropriate. However, if there is a serious conflict that could lead to war, the word conflictual may be a better fit.
| Conflict Severity | Appropriate Word Choice |
|---|---|
| Minor Disagreement | Conflicting |
| Potential for War | Conflictual |
Personal Relationships
In personal relationships, the choice between conflictual and conflicting may depend on the nature of the relationship. If two people are simply disagreeing about something, the word conflicting may be more appropriate. However, if there is a deeper issue that is causing conflict, the word conflictual may be a better fit.
| Relationship Type | Appropriate Word Choice |
|---|---|
| Simple Disagreement | Conflicting |
| Deeper Issue | Conflictual |
As you can see, the choice between conflictual and conflicting can depend on a variety of factors. By understanding the context in which these words are used, you can choose the most appropriate word for the situation at hand.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using “conflictual” and “conflicting” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to consider. In certain contexts, these words may not follow the typical guidelines for usage.
Case 1: Technical Terminology
In technical terminology, “conflictual” and “conflicting” may have specific meanings that differ from their general usage. For example, in the field of psychology, “conflictual” may refer to a type of relationship between two people where there is a consistent pattern of disagreement or tension. In this case, the word “conflictual” is used as a technical term and does not necessarily follow the standard rules for usage.
Case 2: Regional Differences
Regional differences in language can also impact the use of “conflictual” and “conflicting.” In some areas, one word may be more commonly used than the other, regardless of whether it follows the standard rules for usage. For example, in British English, “conflictual” is less commonly used than “conflicting.” This means that in certain regions, the standard guidelines for usage may not be as relevant.
Case 3: Colloquial Language
Colloquial language may also impact the use of these words. In informal settings, people may use “conflictual” and “conflicting” interchangeably, even if one word is technically more appropriate than the other. This can be especially true in spoken language, where people may not be as concerned with following strict grammar rules.
Overall, while the rules for using “conflictual” and “conflicting” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to consider. In technical terminology, regional differences, and colloquial language, the standard guidelines for usage may not always apply.
Practice Exercises
Now that we have a good understanding of the differences between conflictual and conflicting, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Below are some exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences.
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Choose the correct word to fill in the blank in each sentence.
| Sentence | Word Choices |
|---|---|
| 1. The ___________ relationship between the two countries led to a declaration of war. | conflictual, conflicting |
| 2. The couple had a ___________ argument about how to spend their vacation. | conflictual, conflicting |
| 3. The ___________ opinions of the two politicians made it difficult to reach a compromise. | conflictual, conflicting |
| 4. The ___________ interests of the two companies made it impossible for them to work together. | conflictual, conflicting |
Answer Key:
- conflictual
- conflicting
- conflicting
- conflictual
Exercise 2: Sentence Completion
Complete each sentence with the correct form of conflictual or conflicting.
- The ___________ interests of the two companies made it difficult for them to work together.
- The couple’s ___________ personalities led to many arguments.
- The ___________ relationship between the two countries eventually led to a peace treaty.
- The ___________ opinions of the two politicians made it impossible to reach a compromise.
Answer Key:
- conflictual
- conflicting
- conflictual
- conflicting
By practicing these exercises, you can improve your understanding and use of conflictual and conflicting in your writing and speech.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the difference between conflictual and conflicting is crucial for effective communication. The two words may seem similar, but they have different meanings and connotations that can greatly impact the message being conveyed.
When using conflictual, it is important to understand that it refers to something that is inherently prone to conflict or disagreement. On the other hand, conflicting refers to things that are in opposition or contradiction to each other.
Using these words correctly can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that the intended message is communicated clearly. It is important to continue learning about grammar and language use to improve communication skills and avoid common errors.
Key Takeaways
- Conflictual and conflicting have different meanings and connotations.
- Conflictual refers to something that is prone to conflict, while conflicting refers to things that are in opposition or contradiction.
- Using these words correctly can improve communication and avoid misunderstandings.
- Continuing to learn about grammar and language use is important for effective communication.
By keeping these key takeaways in mind, readers can enhance their communication skills and avoid common mistakes when using conflictual and conflicting.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.