A war of nerves

usgb
noun

A situation where both sides try to weaken each other by making them feel anxious and frightened, not usually involving physical violence.

The election campaign turned into a war of nerves as both parties tried to undermine each other's confidence.
Visual representation of "a war of nerves" - A situation where both sides try to weaken each other by making them feel anxious and frightened, not usually involving physical violence

Often appears as...

  • engage in a war of nerves
  • start a war of nerves

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a war of nerves"
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Figurative Sense

The phrase is used metaphorically to describe a strategic psychological conflict.

Illustration for Figurative Sense
The two competitors entered a war of nerves, each trying to psych the other out before the race.
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Tension Filled

It refers to a state of ongoing tension without direct confrontation.

Illustration for Tension Filled
The standoff at the border became a war of nerves, with neither side backing down.
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Anxiety Provoking

It emphasizes wearing down another's emotional stability by creating fear and anxiety.

Illustration for Anxiety Provoking
In this war of nerves, repeated false alarms were used to disturb the enemy's peace.
Visual representation of the word "A war of nerves"

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