German word

Duell

Pronunciation

IPA/duˈɛl/

Meaning

  • neuter nounshowdown

Example

Das Duell zwischen den Mannschaften war spannend.

The showdown between the teams was exciting.

Illustration for Duell (showdown)

More examples

Sie lieferten sich ein Duell auf Augenhöhe.

They engaged in an evenly matched duel.

Core concept

Two opponents face each other in a clearly framed contest, whether on a field, stage, or in public debate.

Common phrases

  • ein Duell auf Augenhöhe

    an evenly matched duel

  • ein hitziges Duell

    a heated duel

Similar words

Kampf: A struggle involving violence or physical force.
Wettkampf: A competitive match in sport to determine results or ranking.
Konfrontation: A direct clash between opposing positions or opinions.

Definition in German

Duell bezeichnet einen formellen oder symbolischen Wettstreit zwischen zwei Seiten, oft als persönlicher oder medialer Vergleich gebraucht.

Word origin

German Duell was borrowed through French duel from Latin duellum, an older word for war, and later denoted a fight between individuals.

Usage tips

  • Duell is neuter, so the standard forms are das Duell and die Duelle.

Other meanings

  • duelnoun
  • one-on-onenoun

Opposites

Related words

  • Duellantduelistnoun
  • Duellpartnerduel opponentnoun

Word lists with this word