English Profile

battle · noun

/ˈbæt̬.əl/Full view

battle (WAR)

B1 C or U a fight between armed forces in a war

Dictionary examples:

the Battle of Gettysburg

He was killed in battle.

Learner example:

But he died in a battle, so nobody knew where the treasure [was] hidden! (First Certificate in English; B2; Greek)

battle (PROBLEMS/ILLNESS)

B2 C a fight against something that is very difficult, or that is hurting or destroying you

Dictionary example:

a long battle against cancer

Learner example:

His life was a hard battle, trying to break through. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)

battle (ARGUMENT)

C2 C when two people or groups compete against each other or have an argument about something

Dictionary example:

They’re in a battle with their publisher over electronic rights.

Learner example:

A very important point is that there must always be a discussion between children and parents, which allows everyone to understand the different points of view and avoids a constant battle between the family members. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; German)

battle · verb I or T

/ˈbæt̬.əl/

battle

C2 to try very hard to do something difficult or to fight against someone or something

Dictionary examples:

Throughout the campaign, Johnson was battling health problems.

Congress is battling with the White House over funding.

Learner example:

Many countries are battling with environmental problems and certain tourists feel that it is perfectly acceptable to leave their litter behind them on beaches and other public places, after all in two or three weeks they can leave it all behind them. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)