Definition

1. Verb:
   • To be in conflict, to clash: Refers to parties engaging in a struggle or dispute, typically over power, territory, or interests. It implies a state of contention and rivalry.
   • To contend, to vie: Describes the act of competing or fighting for supremacy, control, or advantage.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Trịnh, Nguyễn phân tranh. (The Trinh and Nguyen lords were in conflict.)
  • Hai phe trong công ty tiếp tục phân tranh quyền kiểm soát. (The two factions within the company continue to vie for control.)
  • Cuộc phân tranh đó kéo dài hàng thập kỷ. (That conflict lasted for decades.)

Advanced Usage

• Historical & Formal Context: The word is often used in historical or formal contexts to describe protracted power struggles, such as between dynasties, feudal lords, or political factions.
  • Giai đoạn phân tranh giữa các thế lực phong kiến. (The period of contention among feudal powers.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tranh giành (v): to scramble for, to compete for (often with a more active, grasping connotation).
• Xung đột (v/n): to conflict; a conflict (a more general term for clash or conflict).
• Đối đầu (v): to confront, to be in opposition.

Synonyms

• Conflict: A serious disagreement or struggle.
• Clash: To come into conflict.
• Contend: To struggle in opposition or rivalry.
• Vie: To compete eagerly with someone for something.

Related Idioms

• Phân tranh thiên hạ: To contend for supremacy over the country (a classical idiom describing a struggle for the throne or national control).
  • Thời kỳ các chư hầu phân tranh thiên hạ. (The period when the feudal lords contended for the realm.)

1. Be in conflict, clash
   • Trịnh, Nguyễn phân tranh
     The conflict between the Trinhs and the Nguyens