war

All's fair in love and war.

something that you say which means behaviour that is unpleasant or not fair is acceptable during an argument or competition. We weren't cheating, we were just playing to win. Anyway, all's fair in love and war.

See also: fair, love

a battle/war of nerves

a situation in which two competing groups of people try to defeat each other by frightening and threatening each other without taking action. This has become a battle of nerves with neither side seeming willing to back down.

See also: battle, nerve

have been in the wars (British & Australian, humorous)

someone, especially a child, who has been in the wars, has been hurt. You poor little boy, you have been in the wars!

See also: been

a turf war (American)

a fight or an argument to decide who controls an area or an activity. The recent shootings in the city are part of a turf war between two competing gangs.

a war of words

a long argument between two people or groups. The war of words between the two rivals for the presidency continues to dominate the news bulletins. (often + between) The article describes the war of words over acid rain. (often + over)

See also: word