1 – A test of strength in which two teams pull opposite ends of a rope against each other
2 – A situation in which two people or groups try very hard to get or keep the same thing
There was a constant tug-of-war between the military and the president.
Longman Dictionary
Getouwtrek
Voortdurende strijd om iets voor elkaar te krijgen:
het getouwtrek om de ministersposten
Van Dale
tug-of-war
• Two people pulling in opposite directions have a tug-of-war.
• Rather, what seems to be happening is a tug-of-war over where exactly the bipartisan centre stands.
• Often, several make contact with the wall and then there is a tug-of-war between them.
• She heard the break before she actually saw the child who had fallen at the winning end of a tug-of-war rope.
• The children are trapped in an emotional tug-of-war between their parents.
• They have intricate games of tug-of-war with anything long enough to pull.
• Opposing forces were in precarious balance, and resolving their tug-of-war was his prime concern.
In the context of a metaphorical struggle or conflict between two opposing forces, “A Tug-of-war” could represent several key points:
Opposition and conflict: The central idea of “A Tug-of-war” as a metaphor could be the existence of opposing forces or entities in conflict with each other. These opposing forces may represent different ideologies, perspectives, interests, or values that are vying for dominance or control.
Power dynamics: “A Tug-of-war” could symbolize the power dynamics at play in a conflict, with each side exerting effort and strategy to gain an advantage over the other. The key point could be the dynamic interplay of power, influence, and effort between the opposing forces, as they pull and counter-pull in an attempt to achieve their respective goals.
Struggle and resistance: “A Tug-of-war” often implies a struggle or resistance from both sides, as they oppose each other’s efforts and strive to overcome the opposition. The key point could be the notion of resistance, resilience, and determination exhibited by both sides in the face of the conflict, and the ongoing battle to gain an upper hand.
Stalemate and equilibrium: Tug-of-war can sometimes result in a stalemate, where neither side is able to gain a clear advantage over the other, and the game reaches an equilibrium. The key point could be the idea of balance or equilibrium in the conflict, where opposing forces are evenly matched and neither side can gain dominance.
Strategy and tactics: Tug-of-war often involves strategic planning and tactical maneuvers to outwit the opponent and gain an advantage. The key point could be the importance of strategy, planning, and tactics in a conflict, as both sides employ various approaches to outmaneuver each other and achieve their objectives.
Consequences and outcomes: “A Tug-of-war” may also highlight the consequences and outcomes of the conflict, such as the impact on individuals, groups, or society as a whole. The key point could be the ramifications and implications of the conflict, including potential winners and losers, and the aftermath of the struggle.
It’s important to note that the key points of “A Tug-of-war” in the context of a metaphorical struggle or conflict may vary depending on the specific context, such as the nature of the opposing forces, the setting, and the intended message or theme being conveyed. Further context and details would be needed to provide a more comprehensive analysis.
In the context of a metaphorical struggle or conflict between two opposing forces, the key points of “A Tug-of-war” could include:
Opposing forces: The key point in this context is the existence of two opposing forces, with different agendas, interests, or ideologies, pulling in opposite directions. This could be represented by individuals, groups, organizations, or even abstract concepts.
Stalemate: In a tug-of-war, if neither team is able to pull the other across the boundary line, the game ends in a stalemate. Similarly, in a metaphorical tug-of-war, the key point could be the lack of progress or resolution due to the opposing forces being equally matched and unable to overpower the other.
Tactics and strategies: In a tug-of-war, teams use various tactics and strategies to gain an advantage, such as shifting weight, changing grip, or timing the pull. In a metaphorical tug-of-war, the key point could be the use of different tactics and strategies by each side, such as negotiation, manipulation, or coercion, to gain an advantage and achieve their goals.
Consequences: In a tug-of-war, the consequences of winning or losing can be significant, such as gaining or losing territory, prestige, or bragging rights. In a metaphorical tug-of-war, the key point could be the potential consequences of the conflict, such as loss of resources, damage to relationships, or even physical harm or destruction.
Resolution: In a tug-of-war, the game ends when one team pulls the other across the boundary line or the time limit is reached. Similarly, in a metaphorical tug-of-war, the key point could be the eventual resolution of the conflict, whether through compromise, surrender, or escalation to a higher authority.
Overall, the key points of “A Tug-of-war” in the context of a metaphorical struggle or conflict between two opposing forces would depend on the specific situation, the nature of the opposing forces, and the stakes involved in the conflict.
