Difference Between Conflict and Problem

Main Difference – Conflict vs Problem

Conflict and problems are two words that typically describe negative situations or matters. A conflict is a disagreement or clash, which can be between two or more people or concepts. A problem is a matter or situation that is considered as harmful or unpleasant. A conflict can be described as a problem. The key difference between conflict and problem is that a conflict always has two or more parties whereas problems have no such parties.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Conflict 
     – Definition, Usage, Examples
2. What is a Problem
    – Definition, Usage, Examples
3. What is the Difference Between Conflict and Problem
    – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms: Argument, Conflict, Intra-group Conflict, Problem

What is a Conflict

A conflict is a serious disagreement or argument.  In a conflict, there is some form of friction or discord between two people or a group. This happens when the beliefs or actions of one or more members of the group are unacceptable to or resisted by one or more members of another group. A conflict usually lasts for a longer time period. A conflict that happens between members of the same group is known as an intra-group conflict. Conflicts can also happen between members of two groups. Conflicts can also involve violence. Quarrels/arguments between individual, labor strikes, or armed conflicts are some examples of conflicts.  

Conflict can also refer to a clash or incompatibility between two concepts or arguments; for example, the conflict between science and religion. The following sentences will help you to understand the meaning and usage of the term conflict.

• The conflict between doctors and minor medical staff resulted in a three-day
• There was a conflict between his personal life and professional life.
• The conflict between the education minister and the health minister was finally resolved by the president.
• Johnathan’s will was a source of conflict between his children.

What is a Problem

Problem is one of the most commonly used terms in the language. It has several related meanings in different contexts. Some of these meanings include

• a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution
• a source of perplexity, distress, or vexation (Merriam-Webster)
• a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome (Oxford Dictionary)

The following sentences will help you to understand the meaning and usage of the term problem.

• He was facing some financial problems.
• The principal held a meeting to discuss the problems related to students’ low performance.
• She was worried about some family problems.
• He saw racism and sexism as two major social problems.
• Insufficient funds and the use of poor quality products are the major sources of the problem.

Difference Between Conflict and Problem

Definition

Conflict: Conflict is a serious disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one.

Problem: Problem is a matter or situation considered as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome.

Parties

Conflict: There are two or more parties in a problem.

Problem: There are no parties.

Implications

Conflict: The term conflict implies incompatibility, disagreement or clash.

Problem: The problem implies difficulty, doubt, or uncertainty.

Time Period

Conflict: Conflict typically lasts for a long time.

Problem: Some problems can be resolved very quickly.

Conclusion

There is a distinct difference between conflict and problem. A conflict is a disagreement or clash, which can be between two or more people or concepts. A problem is a matter or situation that is considered as harmful or unpleasant.

Image Courtesy:

1. “A problem” By Zahy1412 – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Conflict Silhouette” (Public Domain) via PublicDomainPictures.net