What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
altercation
Example
The altercation between the two neighbors was so loud that it woke up the entire street. [altercation: noun]
Example
He was arrested for his involvement in an altercation at the bar. [altercation: noun]
clash
Example
The two armies clashed in a fierce battle that lasted for hours. [clashed: verb]
Example
There was a clash of opinions between the two political parties during the debate. [clash: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clash is more commonly used than altercation in everyday language, especially in news, politics, and sports contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between altercation and clash?
Both altercation and clash are relatively formal words and are not commonly used in informal or casual conversations.
