a short, minor battle between small groups of soldiers or warriors, a brief argument or disagreement

Formal and Informal Expressions of skirmish

In different contexts, you can replace 'skirmish' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'clash, encounter' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'fight, argument' is a commonplace synonym.

skirmish: Explore its Definition & Usage

skirmish Definition

1a short, minor battle between small groups of soldiers or warriors
2a brief argument or disagreement

Using skirmish: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "skirmish" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The two armies engaged in a skirmish before retreating.
Example
There was a skirmish between the protesters and the police.
Example
The political candidates had a skirmish during the debate.

skirmish Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for skirmish

Antonyms for skirmish

Phrases with skirmish

have a skirmish with someone
to have a brief argument or disagreement with someone
Example
I had a skirmish with my boss over the deadline.
skirmish line
a line of soldiers or warriors who engage in a series of small battles or attacks
Example
The skirmish line advanced towards the enemy's position.
skirmish mode
a mode in video games where players engage in small battles or fights
Example
I prefer playing in skirmish mode rather than campaign mode.

Origins of skirmish

from Old French 'eskirmiss', meaning 'a skirmish'

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Summary: skirmish in Brief

A 'skirmish' [ˈskɜː.mɪʃ] is a brief, minor battle between small groups of soldiers or warriors. It can also refer to a short argument or disagreement, as in 'The political candidates had a skirmish during the debate.' Other phrases include 'have a skirmish with someone,' referring to a brief argument, and 'skirmish mode,' a type of video game play.