How to say "strife" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 相克そうこくnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbStrife as a clash between two irreconcilable forces — opposing ideals, factions, or powers locked in struggle. It suggests deep, fundamental opposition rather than an ordinary quarrel.
- 争いあらそいnounStrife in its most general sense: fighting, quarreling, or discord between people. When you mean conflict without any special coloring, this all-purpose word is the safest choice.
- 騒動そうどうnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbStrife as public turmoil: riots, rebellion, commotion, or upheaval affecting a whole community. Not the word for a private quarrel or personal dispute.
- 紛争ふんそうnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbStrife taking the form of a dispute or conflict between parties such as nations, organizations, or groups; it also covers the unrest and trouble that such disputes produce.
- 抗争こうそうnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbStrife as a sustained feud or rivalry: ongoing contention with an opposing side, as between rival groups or factions. It pictures strife as a continuing struggle rather than a one-time clash.
Use 「争い」 for strife in general as quarreling or conflict; 相克 for a clash of irreconcilable forces; 騒動 for public turmoil or upheaval; 紛争 for disputes between parties; 抗争 for sustained feuds or rivalries.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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