Meaning and Usage
The word 抗争 (こうそう) refers to disputes, conflicts, or resistance, often involving opposing parties or groups. It is commonly used in contexts such as political struggles, labor disputes, or territorial conflicts.
Common Contexts
You will often see 抗争 used in news reports or formal discussions about ongoing conflicts, whether between organizations, communities, or countries. It implies a serious and often prolonged struggle rather than a casual disagreement.
Collocations and Patterns
- 抗争が続く: conflict continues
- 抗争を始める: to start a dispute or resistance
- 抗争を避ける: to avoid conflict
These phrases help express the dynamics of conflict and resolution.
Register and Nuance
抗争 is a formal and somewhat serious term. It is not used for minor arguments or casual disagreements. When using this word, the speaker implies a significant and often intense conflict.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 抗争 with simpler words like 争い (あらそい), which can mean any kind of dispute or fight. 抗争 carries a stronger nuance of organized or prolonged conflict, so use it when the situation is serious or involves groups rather than individuals.