collision course

/kəˈlɪʒən kɔːrs/
phraseIntermediate a path leading to inevitable conflict
informal

a situation where two or more parties are heading toward a direct confrontation or conflict

The two companies are on a collision course over market dominance.

They are heading toward a direct confrontation over market control.

His stubbornness put him on a collision course with his boss.

His refusal to compromise led to an inevitable conflict with his boss.

💡

Often used in political, business, or personal contexts to describe an unavoidable clash.

Related Phrases

on a collision coursephrase
heading toward inevitable conflict

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

This phrase is often used in serious contexts, such as international relations or business disputes.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

Use this phrase sparingly to maintain its impact in serious discussions.

📖Word Origin

From 'collision' (a violent crash) + 'course' (a path or direction). The phrase suggests an unavoidable clash due to opposing paths.

📝Usage Notes

Commonly used in discussions about politics, business, or personal relationships where conflict seems unavoidable.

Word Breakdown

collision
a violent crash or clash
root
+
course
a path or direction
root
English Dictionary