At daggers drawn

Pro Tip 1/3

Indicates a very intense and fierce conflict, often with a sense of mutual hostility.

After the dispute over the inheritance, the siblings were at daggers drawn.

Pro Tip 2/3

Used metaphorically for disagreements, not actual fighting with weapons.

Despite being at daggers drawn, the debate between the candidates remained civil.

Pro Tip 3/3

Refers to situations where reconciliation seems unlikely due to the serious nature of the disagreement.

The joint venture failed, and the partners were at daggers drawn, refusing to communicate.