Contretemps (Noun)
Meaning
An awkward clash; "he tried to smooth over his contretemps with the policeman".
Classification
Nouns denoting acts or actions.
Usages
Examples
- The politician's attempt to mitigate the effects of the scandal was hindered by his own recent contretemps with a prominent journalist.
- Her sarcastic comment sparked a contretemps with her sister, who was already feeling sensitive about the family gathering.
- He tried to smooth over his contretemps with the policeman by explaining that he was rushing to help someone in need.
- The contretemps between the two chefs in the kitchen led to a delay in serving the main course.
- The tense conversation about politics ended in a contretemps between the friends, who had previously always avoided discussing sensitive topics.