Words / B2

FRIKSHUN/ˈfrɪkʃn/

Friction is resistance when surfaces rub, or disagreement: friction between teams; reduce friction. Conflict is wider; rubbing is the physical everyday idea. Physics: calculate friction. Workplace: friction delayed INSET. Do not use it for a single rude email unless tension is ongoing.

Meaning

Resistance when surfaces rub; also disagreement between people or groups.

Examples

• “Friction between the trust and the union delayed the INSET day.”
• “The practical measures friction on the ramp, which is the physics sense.”

Good to know

friction between A and B; reduce friction. Physics: force of friction. Close (people): tension / conflict. Labs and industrial relations.

Near in meaning

tension

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