Friction is a noun that refers to the resistance encountered when two surfaces are in contact and move against each other, causing opposition to motion. However, it can also be used figuratively to describe conflict, tension, or disagreement between people, groups, or ideas, often leading to discomfort or discord. In both physical and social contexts, friction suggests an element of struggle or a force that slows down progress or cooperation.
Sentences Using “Friction”:
- The friction between the two companies led to a prolonged legal battle.
- There was noticeable friction in their relationship after the argument about money.
- The constant friction between management and workers resulted in frequent strikes.
- Friction in the gears of the machine caused it to malfunction during production.
- The friction between the two political parties was evident during the debate.
- Despite the friction in their conversation, they managed to reach an agreement.
- The lack of communication caused friction between the project teams, slowing down progress.
- The car’s brakes were damaged due to friction over time, causing safety concerns.
- Cultural friction arose when the two communities tried to integrate into the same neighborhood.
- There was a lot of friction at the dinner table, as family members disagreed on sensitive topics.
Synonyms for “friction”:
- Conflict
- Tension
- Disagreement
- Strife
- Discord
- Rub
- Clash
- Dispute
- Resistance
- Opposition
Antonyms for “friction”:
- Harmony
- Agreement
- Cooperation
- Unity
- Amity
- Peace
- Accord
- Understanding
- Compatibility
- Smoothness
Related Words:
- Tension
- Hostility
- Discomfort
- Struggle
- Rubbing
- Resistance
- Agitation
- Contention
- Fray
- Clash
Idiomatic Expressions:
- “Rub someone the wrong way” – To cause friction or annoyance unintentionally, e.g., “His comments about her work really rubbed her the wrong way.”
- “Get under someone’s skin” – To irritate or create friction with someone, e.g., “The constant delays were starting to get under his skin.”
- “Add fuel to the fire” – To make a situation of friction or conflict worse, e.g., “Her sharp words only added fuel to the fire in their argument.”
- “Butt heads” – To clash or experience friction, especially in disagreements, e.g., “The two leaders continually butted heads over the policy changes.”
- “A thorn in one’s side” – A source of persistent friction or irritation, e.g., “His constant lateness was a thorn in my side.”
- “Burn bridges” – To cause friction by severing relationships, e.g., “His rude comments at the meeting burned bridges with his colleagues.”
- “Put a wedge between” – To create friction or division between people, e.g., “The disagreement over finances put a wedge between the business partners.”
- “Throw a wrench in the works” – To introduce friction or obstacles that hinder progress, e.g., “The unexpected delay threw a wrench in the works of our project.”
- “Have a bone to pick” – To have a point of friction or a grievance with someone, e.g., “He had a bone to pick with her over the way the meeting was handled.”
- “Bump heads” – To have a clash or experience friction in opinions, e.g., “They bumped heads over the best way to approach the issue.”