Synonyms for
Duel
Definition
a prearranged fight between two people, usually with deadly weapons, in order to settle a quarrel
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- duel to the death
- duel to the finish
- challenge to a duel
- accept a duel
- fight a duel
- survive a duel
- honorary duel
Word family
Usage note
While 'duel' historically referred to a formal combat between two individuals, often to settle a point of honor, it can now be used more broadly to describe any intense one-on-one competition or confrontation.
Example sentences
- The two cowboys decided to duel at high noon to determine who was the best shot.
- The two samurai drew their swords and began to duel to the death.
- The two boxers dueled in the ring for the championship title.
- The two wizards dueled with their magic wands to determine who was the most powerful.
- The two musicians dueled on stage, trying to outdo each other with their solos.
Quotes
'The first rule of a duel is to avoid it.' - Rafael Sabatini
'Never point a weapon at anyone unless you mean to shoot. And if you shoot, you'd better hit him. And if you hit him, you'd better kill him. Because if you don't, he's going to come back and try to kill you.' - Louis L'Amour
'A gentleman does not insult his neighbor - unless he's prepared to back it up with a gentlemanly display of violence.' - Stephen Colbert