ENGLISH
REFERENCE

come to blows

idiom
Meaning

To fight; to initiate physical conflict, especially subsequent to escalating tension or antagonism.


Examples
SIMPLE

The two neighbors almost came to blows over the fence.

CONTEXTUAL

The argument grew so heated that the two business partners nearly came to blows in the meeting room.

COMPLEX

After hours of bitter disagreement regarding the inheritance, the siblings finally came to blows, shattering the long-standing peace within the family home.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as the wind blows

    According to any given circumstances.

  2. 02

    as they come

    As it is possible to be.

  3. 03

    blow to kingdom come

    To totally destroy (something); to annihilate or wipe out (something).

  4. 04

    Christmas come early

    Something very delightful or fortunate that is happening or has happened, especially earlier than expected.

  5. 05

    come a cropper

    To suffer some accident or misfortune; to fail.

  6. 06

    come a long way

    To make significant progress.

  7. 07

    come again

    A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said, or to indicate surprise.

  8. 08

    come alive

    to become responsive and animated.

© 2026 English Reference