Lock horns Meaning in English
expression
ˈɫɑk/ /ˈhɔɹnz
LAHK HORNZ
lˈɒk/ /hˈɔːnz
LOK HAWNZ
Definition
To strongly argue, disagree, or fight with someone, usually over an issue or idea. Originally refers to animals fighting with their horns.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in figurative speech about conflicts, not physical fights. More common in written or formal spoken English. Typical with phrases like 'lock horns over' or 'lock horns with'. Imply strong, open disagreement.
Spanish: enfrentarse - chocar (figurado)Portuguese (BR): entrar em conflito - bater de frentePortuguese (PT): entrar em confronto - bater de frenteChinese (Simplified): 激烈争执 - 发生冲突Chinese (Traditional): 激烈爭執 - 發生衝突Hindi: टकराना - भिड़नाArabic: يتصادم - يختلف بشدةBengali: তর্কে জড়ানো - বিবাদে জড়ানোRussian: спорить - вступать в конфликтJapanese: 激しく対立する - 論争するVietnamese: tranh cãi kịch liệt - đối đầu nhauKorean: 격렬히 충돌하다 - 논쟁하다Turkish: sert bir şekilde tartışmak - çatışmakUrdu: زبردست بحث کرنا - شدت سے اختلاف کرناIndonesian: berselisih tajam - beradu argumen keras
Example Sentences
The two managers locked horns during the meeting.
basic
Politicians often lock horns over new laws.
basic
My brother and I locked horns over who would do the chores.
basic
They tend to lock horns whenever money comes up.
natural
Ever since college, those two have locked horns on almost everything.
natural
Don’t be surprised if they lock horns again at the next meeting.
natural