fray

enter/join the fray

to become involved in an argument or a fight. Members of the royal family rarely enter the political fray.

See also: enter, join

fray around/at the edges

to start to become less effective or successful. This songwriting partnership began to fray at the edges after both partners got married.

See also: around, edge

frayed tempers

tempers fray - if tempers fray among a group of people, they all become angry. Traffic jams inevitably lead to frayed tempers.

See also: temper

tempers fray

if tempers fray among a group of people, they all become angry. Tempers frayed when, after waiting for hours, we were told there were no tickets left.

See also: temper

---

above the fray

not involved in a particular argument. The president will try to stay above the political fray.

Usage notes: often used with stay, keep, or remain: He's remarkably good at remaining above the fray at the office.

See also: above

enter the fray

to become involved in a very competitive situation. Cable TV companies have entered the fray, using their high-speed lines to provide Internet access.

Etymology: based on the literal meaning of fray (= a physical fight involving a lot of people)

See also: enter