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B1 Noun (plural) / Verb (third-person singular present) #4 mais comum 17 min de leitura

fights

Top 4

At the A1 level, 'fights' is most commonly understood as a simple action or event involving physical conflict or a very basic argument. For a beginner, the word is often associated with children or animals. You might learn it in the context of 'The cats fight' or 'The boys have fights.' At this stage, the focus is on the literal meaning: two people or things hitting each other or being very angry. The grammar is kept simple, usually in the present tense. A1 learners should recognize that 'fights' with an 's' is used when talking about one person (He fights) or when talking about more than one event (Two fights). The concept of 'fighting for a cause' is usually too advanced for this level, so the focus remains on concrete, visible actions. Teachers might use pictures of boxers or arguing children to illustrate the word. The goal is for the student to be able to identify a 'fight' and use the word in a basic sentence to describe what they see. Simple phrases like 'No fights!' or 'They have fights' are typical of A1 usage. It is one of the first words learned to describe negative social interactions, helping students express basic observations about the world around them.

At the A2 level, learners begin to expand their understanding of 'fights' beyond simple physical actions. They start to use the word to describe more common social situations, such as arguments between friends or family members. An A2 student might say, 'I had many fights with my sister when I was young.' They are also introduced to the idea of 'fighting' in a non-physical way, such as 'fighting a cold' or 'fighting for a good grade.' The grammatical use of 'fights' as a third-person singular verb becomes more consistent, and students are expected to distinguish it from the plural noun more accurately. They might also encounter the word in simple news stories or stories where a hero 'fights' a villain. The vocabulary around 'fights' also grows, with students learning related words like 'angry,' 'argument,' and 'win' or 'lose.' At this level, the word 'fights' starts to appear in more varied sentence structures, including those with basic prepositions like 'with' or 'against.' The focus is on practical, everyday communication, allowing the student to describe their own experiences with conflict or the conflicts they observe in their immediate environment.

At the B1 level, the target level for this word, learners should have a solid grasp of both the literal and metaphorical uses of 'fights.' They can use 'fights' to describe complex social issues, such as 'the fights for civil rights' or 'political fights over taxes.' B1 learners are expected to understand and use phrasal verbs like 'fight back' or 'fight off' in context. They can also use the word to describe internal struggles, such as 'He fights his fear of heights.' The distinction between 'fights' as a noun and a verb should be clear, and the student should be able to use various adjectives to modify the noun (e.g., 'bitter fights,' 'frequent fights,' 'legal fights'). At this stage, the word becomes a tool for expressing opinions and describing more abstract concepts. A B1 student might participate in a discussion about whether 'fights' are ever necessary to solve problems. They are also more aware of the register, knowing that 'fights' can be used in both informal conversation and more formal reporting. The word 'fights' is no longer just about physical hitting; it is about the broader human experience of resistance, effort, and disagreement. This level marks a transition where the word becomes a key part of the student's ability to narrate stories and argue a point of view.

At the B2 level, learners use 'fights' with a high degree of nuance and precision. They understand the subtle differences between 'fights' and its synonyms like 'clashes,' 'disputes,' or 'altercations,' and can choose the most appropriate word for the context. A B2 student might use 'fights' in a more sophisticated way, such as 'The company fights to maintain its market share' or 'The film explores the internal fights of a man torn between duty and desire.' They are comfortable with idiomatic expressions involving the word, such as 'fighting a losing battle' or 'fighting fire with fire.' Their grammatical control is excellent, and they can use 'fights' in complex sentence structures, including passive voice and relative clauses. At this level, students can analyze the use of the word in literature or media, identifying how it contributes to the tone or theme of a piece. They are also aware of the cultural implications of the word and how it might be perceived in different social settings. The word 'fights' becomes a versatile instrument for detailed description and persuasive argument, allowing the student to express subtle shades of meaning regarding conflict and perseverance.

At the C1 level, 'fights' is used with the fluency and sophistication of a near-native speaker. The learner can use the word to describe highly abstract or technical conflicts, such as 'the fights between different schools of philosophical thought' or 'the legal fights surrounding intellectual property in the digital age.' They are adept at using the word in rhetorical devices, such as metaphor and personification. A C1 student might write an essay on 'the fights that define a generation,' using the word to encompass social, political, and cultural shifts. They have a deep understanding of the word's etymology and how its meaning has evolved over time. They can also identify and use very specific collocations and rare idiomatic uses. At this level, the focus is on the stylistic impact of the word. The student knows when 'fights' is the most powerful choice and when a more clinical or formal term would be better. They can navigate the complexities of 'fights' in various professional domains, from law and politics to medicine and psychology. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a conceptual building block that the student can manipulate to create nuanced and compelling communication.

At the C2 level, the learner's mastery of 'fights' is complete. They can use the word with total precision, capturing the finest nuances of meaning and tone. They are capable of using 'fights' in highly creative or academic ways, such as 'the dialectical fights that propel historical progress' or 'the subtle fights for dominance within a linguistic community.' A C2 speaker can appreciate and use the word in all its registers, from the coarsest slang to the most elevated literary prose. They are sensitive to the historical and cultural echoes the word carries and can use this knowledge to add depth to their communication. They can also critique the use of the word in others' work, identifying where it might be used as a cliché or where it effectively subverts expectations. At this level, the word 'fights' is integrated into a vast and flexible linguistic repertoire, allowing the speaker to express the full range of human conflict and struggle with elegance and power. Whether engaging in a high-level debate, writing a complex technical report, or creating a work of fiction, the C2 learner uses 'fights' as a master of the language, with a profound understanding of its impact and potential.

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

fights em 30 segundos

Refers to multiple physical or verbal conflicts between individuals or groups, ranging from minor scuffles to serious professional matches or intense emotional arguments.
Acts as the third-person singular present form of the verb 'to fight,' describing the action of resisting, opposing, or striving against a challenge.
Commonly used in sports (boxing), medical contexts (fighting disease), social activism (fighting for rights), and personal relationships (family fights).
Requires careful subject-verb agreement as a verb and is often accompanied by prepositions like 'against,' 'for,' or 'with' to specify the nature of the struggle.

The word 'fights' is a versatile term in the English language, functioning both as the plural form of the noun 'fight' and the third-person singular present form of the verb 'to fight.' At its most fundamental level, it describes a situation where two or more parties engage in a struggle, whether physical, verbal, or metaphorical. In a physical sense, 'fights' refers to brawls, scuffles, or organized bouts like boxing matches. When used to describe verbal interactions, it signifies intense arguments or heated disagreements where participants are often angry and unyielding. The term is ubiquitous in daily conversation because conflict is a natural, albeit often difficult, part of the human experience. Whether it is a child describing playground altercations or a political analyst discussing legislative battles, 'fights' captures the essence of opposition. In the verb form, it describes the action of an individual or entity actively resisting something or striving to achieve a goal against significant odds. For example, a person 'fights' a disease, or a community 'fights' for better resources. This dual nature makes it a cornerstone of English vocabulary, applicable in contexts ranging from the most mundane domestic disputes to the most profound existential struggles.

Physical Conflict: This refers to actual bodily combat. It can be spontaneous, like street fights, or sanctioned, like professional prize fights. The focus is on the physical force exerted by the participants.

The referee had to step in quickly because the fights in the ring were becoming too dangerous for the athletes.

Beyond the physical, 'fights' is frequently used to describe internal or psychological struggles. We often hear that someone 'fights' their inner demons or 'fights' the urge to give up. This metaphorical usage elevates the word from a simple description of violence to a powerful expression of human willpower and resilience. In social and political spheres, 'fights' characterizes the efforts of groups to secure rights or change laws. These are not usually physical brawls but are instead 'fights' in the arena of ideas, policy, and public opinion. The word carries a connotation of effort and resistance; you do not 'fight' something that is easy to overcome. Therefore, when people use this word, they are emphasizing the difficulty of the situation and the determination required to face it. It is also important to note the register of the word. While 'fights' is common in informal speech, it is also perfectly acceptable in formal writing, provided the context justifies the intensity the word implies. In academic or legal writing, one might prefer 'conflicts' or 'disputes,' but 'fights' remains a strong, evocative choice for highlighting the active nature of a struggle.

Verbal Arguments: In domestic or social settings, 'fights' usually means loud, angry disagreements. These are more intense than mere 'discussions' and often involve emotional outbursts.

Even though they are best friends, they often have small fights about which movie to watch on Friday nights.

The historical evolution of 'fights' shows its deep roots in the concept of 'striking' or 'beating.' In modern usage, this has expanded to include any form of active opposition. When a person 'fights' a fire, they are using tools and strategy to extinguish it. When a lawyer 'fights' a case, they are using legal arguments to win. The word 'fights' thus serves as a bridge between the physical world of action and the abstract world of intention. It is a word that demands attention because it signals that something is at stake. Whether the 'fights' are over a toy in a nursery or over territory in a war zone, the word conveys a sense of urgency and confrontation that few other words can match. It is this versatility that makes 'fights' an essential part of the B1 learner's vocabulary, as it allows for the expression of complex social and personal dynamics in a straightforward way.

Metaphorical Struggles: This usage describes non-physical resistance against abstract concepts like injustice, poverty, or disease. It emphasizes the persistence and effort of the subject.

She fights for environmental protection by organizing local clean-up events every month.

The history books are full of the fights that led to the establishment of modern democracy.

He fights against the temptation to eat junk food while he is on his new diet.

Using 'fights' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role in a sentence. As a plural noun, it usually follows an adjective or a determiner. For instance, 'constant fights' or 'those fights.' As a verb, it must follow a singular subject in the present tense. This distinction is crucial for clarity. When we say 'The cat fights,' we are describing an action. When we say 'The cat's fights,' we are referring to the events themselves. The word 'fights' often takes prepositions like 'against,' 'for,' or 'with' to provide more context. For example, one 'fights against' an enemy, 'fights for' a cause, or 'fights with' a partner. These prepositions change the meaning significantly, so learners must pay close attention to the surrounding words. In many cases, 'fights' is accompanied by adverbs that describe the intensity or frequency of the action, such as 'bravely fights' or 'frequently fights.'

Noun Usage (Plural): Refers to multiple instances of conflict. Example: 'The neighborhood is quiet now, but there used to be many street fights here.'

The documentary explored the many fights that took place during the labor strikes of the 1920s.

When 'fights' acts as a verb, it is often part of a larger idiomatic expression or a phrasal verb. 'Fights back' is a common phrasal verb meaning to defend oneself or to retaliate. 'Fights off' means to repel an attacker or to resist a developing illness. These variations add layers of meaning that are essential for natural-sounding English. Furthermore, 'fights' can be used in the passive voice in some contexts, though it is less common. For example, 'The battle that he fights is a difficult one.' Here, 'fights' is still active, but the sentence structure places the focus on the 'battle.' In everyday conversation, people often use 'fights' to describe recurring issues in relationships. 'They have their fights' is a common way to say that a couple has a normal amount of disagreement. This use of the plural noun softens the impact of the word, suggesting that the conflicts are a standard part of life rather than catastrophic events.

Verb Usage (Third-Person Singular): Describes the action of a single person or thing. Example: 'The immune system fights off infections by producing antibodies.'

Every morning, he fights the urge to hit the snooze button on his alarm clock.

In more formal or literary contexts, 'fights' can be used to describe the struggle of an idea or a movement. A sentence like 'The truth often fights its way to the surface' personifies 'truth,' giving it the agency to struggle against suppression. This level of usage is common in journalism and essays. Additionally, 'fights' can be modified by a wide range of adjectives to specify the type of conflict. We see 'legal fights,' 'political fights,' 'custody fights,' and 'dogfights.' Each of these modifiers narrows the scope of the word, making it a precise tool for communication. When writing, it is helpful to consider if 'fights' is the most accurate word. If the conflict is purely intellectual and calm, 'debates' might be better. If it is a minor disagreement, 'spats' or 'squabbles' could work. However, if the situation involves significant effort, emotion, or physical force, 'fights' is usually the most appropriate and powerful choice.

Common Phrasal Verbs: 'Fights back' (retaliates), 'fights off' (resists), 'fights down' (suppresses an emotion). These are essential for idiomatic fluency.

When the company tried to lower wages, the union fights back with a series of organized protests.

The brave knight fights the dragon to save the kingdom from destruction.

Our team has had several fights about the best strategy to use for the upcoming project.

The word 'fights' is a staple of modern media and everyday discourse. In the world of sports, particularly combat sports like boxing, MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), and wrestling, 'fights' is the standard term for the matches themselves. You will hear commentators say, 'We have some incredible fights lined up for tonight.' In this context, the word is professional and technical. Similarly, in news broadcasting, 'fights' is used to describe civil unrest, military skirmishes, or intense political battles. A news anchor might report on 'fights breaking out between protesters and police' or 'the legislative fights over the new budget.' These uses highlight the word's ability to convey serious, high-stakes conflict. In entertainment, 'fights' are a central element of action movies, video games, and literature. Fans often discuss their favorite 'boss fights' in games or 'fight scenes' in films, showing how the word has become a category of content in itself.

Sports Commentary: Used to describe scheduled matches. It implies a high level of skill and competition. Example: 'The championship fights are the highlight of the season.'

The announcer shouted that the fights were about to begin, and the crowd went wild with excitement.

In the domestic sphere, 'fights' is heard in conversations about relationships and family life. Parents might talk about their children's 'sibling fights,' or friends might gossip about a couple's 'constant fights.' Here, the word is more informal and often carries a tone of frustration or concern. It is also common in medical and health contexts. Doctors and health advocates often talk about how the body 'fights' infection or how a patient 'fights' a long-term illness. This personification of the biological process helps patients understand the active role their body (and their own willpower) plays in recovery. You will also hear 'fights' in the context of social justice and activism. Slogans like 'The fight for equality' or 'She fights for the voiceless' are common. In these instances, 'fights' is a badge of honor, signifying a commitment to a noble cause. It transforms the concept of conflict into one of advocacy and courage.

News and Politics: Describes ideological or physical clashes in the public sphere. It emphasizes the adversarial nature of the situation.

The evening news reported on the various fights occurring across the globe over territory and resources.

Pop culture is another major source where 'fights' is frequently encountered. From the title of the famous movie 'Fight Club' to the lyrics of countless songs about 'fighting for love' or 'fighting the system,' the word is deeply embedded in our creative expressions. It resonates with audiences because it taps into the universal theme of overcoming obstacles. In business, you might hear about 'price fights' or 'market share fights,' where companies compete aggressively for dominance. Even in the digital world, we talk about 'flame fights' or 'Twitter fights,' referring to heated arguments in online forums. This adaptability shows that as long as there is competition, disagreement, or struggle, the word 'fights' will remain a vital part of how we describe our world. It is a word that spans the gap between the physical and the digital, the personal and the political, making it one of the most hardworking words in the English lexicon.

Medical Context: Describes the body's natural defense mechanisms or a patient's psychological resilience. Example: 'He fights the disease with incredible strength.'

The doctor explained how the new medication fights the virus at a cellular level.

Social media is often a place where political fights become very personal and aggressive.

The hero of the story fights for justice in a city filled with corruption and crime.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 'fights' is confusing its noun and verb forms. Because the word looks the same in both cases (except for the context), it is easy to misapply grammatical rules. For example, a student might say 'They fights every day,' forgetting that the verb 'fights' is only for singular subjects (he, she, it). The correct plural verb is 'fight' (They fight every day). Conversely, a student might use 'fight' when they mean the plural noun, such as saying 'I saw two fight yesterday' instead of 'I saw two fights yesterday.' Another frequent error involves the intensity of the word. 'Fights' is a very strong term. Using it to describe a mild disagreement can make the speaker sound overly dramatic. For instance, if two people simply disagree on which restaurant to go to, calling it a 'fight' might be an exaggeration unless they were actually shouting at each other. In such cases, 'disagreement' or 'argument' is often more accurate.

Subject-Verb Agreement: The verb 'fights' is only for singular subjects. Plural subjects use 'fight'. Incorrect: 'The boys fights.' Correct: 'The boy fights' or 'The boys fight.'

Many learners mistakenly say 'He fight' when they should say 'He fights' to match the singular subject.

Preposition errors are also common. Learners often struggle with whether to use 'with,' 'against,' or 'for.' While 'fights with' can mean 'fighting alongside someone' (allies) or 'fighting against someone' (enemies), the context usually clarifies the meaning. However, 'fights for' is strictly for a cause or a benefit. Saying 'He fights for his brother' usually means he is defending his brother, whereas 'He fights with his brother' usually means they are having an argument. Another subtle mistake is the confusion between 'fights' and 'struggles.' While they are synonyms, 'fights' implies a more active, often aggressive opposition, while 'struggles' can be more passive or internal. For example, you 'fight' an attacker, but you 'struggle' with a difficult math problem. Using 'fights' for a math problem would sound strange to a native speaker. Additionally, the plural noun 'fights' is sometimes confused with 'fighting.' 'Fighting' is the gerund or continuous form, often used to describe the general activity, while 'fights' refers to specific events.

Preposition Confusion: Choosing the wrong preposition can change the entire meaning. 'Fights for' (support) vs. 'Fights against' (opposition).

It is a mistake to say 'She fights with the environment' if you mean she is trying to protect it; 'fights for' is the correct choice.

Finally, spelling and pronunciation can occasionally cause issues. Some learners might confuse 'fights' with 'flights' (as in airplanes) or 'frights' (as in scares). While the sounds are similar, the meanings are entirely different. In terms of pronunciation, the 'gh' in 'fights' is silent, which can be confusing for those whose native languages are more phonetic. The word is pronounced /faɪts/, rhyming with 'lights' and 'nights.' Mispronouncing the 'gh' or failing to pronounce the final 's' clearly can lead to misunderstandings. To avoid these mistakes, learners should practice the word in context, paying close attention to the subject of the sentence and the intended intensity of the conflict. Reading and listening to natural English will also help in identifying the subtle differences between 'fights' and its synonyms, ensuring that the word is used with the precision it requires.

Noun vs. Gerund: 'Fights' refers to specific instances. 'Fighting' refers to the general state or act. Example: 'The fighting (general) stopped after three fights (specific).'

Don't say 'There is too many fights in this movie'; instead, use 'There are too many fights' to ensure plural agreement.

Using 'fights' to describe a polite debate is a common mistake of over-exaggeration.

Confusing 'fights' with 'flights' can lead to very confusing sentences about travel and combat.

While 'fights' is a powerful and versatile word, English offers many alternatives that can provide more specific nuances. Understanding these synonyms helps a learner move from B1 to higher levels of proficiency. For physical combat, words like 'brawls,' 'scuffles,' 'clashes,' and 'altercations' are useful. A 'brawl' is typically a large, noisy, and unorganized physical fight, often involving many people. A 'scuffle' is a short, confused fight that is usually not very serious. 'Clashes' often refers to violent confrontations between groups, such as protesters and police. 'Altercation' is a more formal word for a noisy argument or a physical fight, often used in legal or official reports. By choosing one of these words, the speaker can convey the exact nature and scale of the physical conflict.

Arguments vs. Fights: An 'argument' is primarily verbal and can be logical or emotional. A 'fight' is usually more intense, emotional, and can become physical. 'Fights' is the stronger term.

While they had many arguments about politics, they never let them turn into full-blown fights.

When it comes to verbal disagreements, 'arguments,' 'disputes,' 'quarrels,' and 'squabbles' are common alternatives. An 'argument' is a general term for a disagreement. A 'dispute' is often more formal and long-lasting, such as a 'labor dispute' or a 'territorial dispute.' A 'quarrel' is an angry argument between people who usually know each other well, often over personal matters. A 'squabble' is a noisy argument about something petty or unimportant, often used to describe children's disagreements. For metaphorical struggles, 'struggles,' 'battles,' and 'conflicts' are excellent choices. A 'battle' implies a significant, organized effort against a major obstacle, such as a 'battle against cancer.' A 'struggle' emphasizes the difficulty and the prolonged nature of the effort. 'Conflict' is a broad term that can describe anything from an internal psychological tension to a full-scale war. Using these alternatives allows for greater precision in writing and speaking.

Brawls vs. Fights: A 'brawl' is a messy, multi-person fight. A 'fight' can be between just two people and can be more controlled (like a boxing match).

The bar was closed early after several brawls broke out among the patrons.

In the verb form, 'fights' can be replaced by 'combats,' 'opposes,' 'resists,' or 'strives.' 'Combats' is often used in a medical or social sense, such as 'combating crime' or 'combating a virus.' 'Opposes' is used when someone is against a plan, law, or idea. 'Resists' implies standing firm against a force or an impulse. 'Strives' is a more positive word, focusing on the effort to achieve something despite difficulties. For example, 'He strives for excellence' is more uplifting than 'He fights for excellence,' although both imply effort. Understanding these synonyms not only improves a learner's vocabulary but also their ability to interpret the tone and intent of others. Whether you are reading a news report, a novel, or a scientific paper, being able to distinguish between 'fights' and its alternatives is a key skill in mastering the English language. It allows for a more nuanced understanding of human interaction and the various ways we deal with opposition and challenge.

Struggles vs. Fights: 'Struggles' often implies a lack of control or a difficult journey. 'Fights' implies a more active, aggressive stance against an opponent.

The young artist struggles to pay the rent, but she fights for her right to express herself through her work.

The police were called to handle the altercations that occurred outside the stadium after the game.

Children often have small squabbles over toys, but they usually forget about them within minutes.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutro

Informal

Child friendly

Gíria

Curiosidade

The 'gh' in 'fights' used to be pronounced in Old and Middle English as a velar fricative sound, similar to the 'ch' in the Scottish word 'loch.' As the English language changed, this sound disappeared, leaving us with the silent 'gh' we see today.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /faɪts/

US /faɪts/

The word is a single syllable, so the stress is on the entire word.

Rima com

Lights Nights Sights Heights Bites Kites Rites Writes Flights

Erros comuns

Pronouncing the 'gh' sound (e.g., saying 'fig-hts').
Forgetting the final 's' sound when it is a plural noun or third-person verb.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'i' as in 'fits'.
Adding an extra syllable (e.g., 'fight-es').
Pronouncing the 'f' as a 'v' sound.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The word is easy to recognize in text, but its metaphorical uses require some context to fully understand.

Escrita 3/5

Subject-verb agreement (fight vs. fights) is a common stumbling block for many learners.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the silent 'gh' is mastered.

Audição 2/5

The final 's' can sometimes be lost in fast speech, making it hard to distinguish from the singular.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

Angry Hit Bad Win Lose

Aprenda a seguir

Conflict Argument Struggle Resistance Resolution

Avançado

Altercation Contestation Antagonism Belligerence Skirmish

Gramática essencial

Third-Person Singular -s

He fights (correct) vs. He fight (incorrect).

Plural Noun Formation

One fight, two fights.

Phrasal Verbs with 'Fight'

She fights off the cold; He fights back against the bully.

Prepositional Usage

Fight for (cause), Fight against (enemy), Fight with (partner/tool).

Gerund vs. Noun

Fighting is difficult (gerund); The fights were loud (noun).

Exemplos por nível

The two cats have small fights in the garden.

Les deux chats ont de petites bagarres dans le jardin.

Plural noun 'fights' following the adjective 'small'.

He fights with his brother about toys.

Il se bat avec son frère pour des jouets.

Third-person singular verb 'fights' with the subject 'He'.

I do not like fights.

Je n'aime pas les bagarres.

Plural noun 'fights' used as a direct object.

The dog fights the big dog.

Le chien se bat contre le gros chien.

Third-person singular verb 'fights'.

There are many fights in the movie.

Il y a beaucoup de bagarres dans le film.

Plural noun 'fights' with the quantifier 'many'.

She fights for her lunch.

Elle se bat pour son déjeuner.

Verb 'fights' with the preposition 'for'.

My friends have fights sometimes.

Mes amis ont parfois des disputes.

Plural noun 'fights' as the object of 'have'.

The hero fights the monster.

Le héros combat le monstre.

Third-person singular verb 'fights'.

The brothers had many fights when they were children.

Les frères ont eu beaucoup de disputes quand ils étaient enfants.

Plural noun 'fights' used to describe past recurring events.

She fights a cold every winter.

Elle combat un rhume chaque hiver.

Metaphorical use of the verb 'fights' for an illness.

They often have fights about who washes the dishes.

Ils ont souvent des disputes pour savoir qui fait la vaisselle.

Plural noun 'fights' followed by a prepositional phrase.

The boxer fights in the ring tonight.

Le boxeur combat sur le ring ce soir.

Verb 'fights' used in a professional sports context.

He fights for better grades in school.

Il se bat pour de meilleures notes à l'école.

Metaphorical verb 'fights' meaning to put in effort.

There were some fights after the football match.

Il y a eu quelques bagarres après le match de football.

Plural noun 'fights' indicating multiple incidents.

The cat fights the bird in the tree.

Le chat se bat avec l'oiseau dans l'arbre.

Third-person singular verb 'fights'.

She always fights with her parents about her clothes.

Elle se dispute toujours avec ses parents pour ses vêtements.

Verb 'fights' used for a verbal disagreement.

The community fights against the new factory project.

La communauté se bat contre le projet de nouvelle usine.

Verb 'fights' used for collective social action.

He fights back when people are mean to him.

Il se défend quand les gens sont méchants avec lui.

Phrasal verb 'fights back' meaning to defend oneself.

There have been many legal fights over this land.

Il y a eu de nombreuses batailles juridiques pour ce terrain.

Plural noun 'fights' modified by the adjective 'legal'.

The body fights off the infection with white blood cells.

Le corps combat l'infection avec des globules blancs.

Phrasal verb 'fights off' in a biological context.

She fights for the rights of animals every day.

Elle se bat pour les droits des animaux chaque jour.

Verb 'fights' used for advocacy and activism.

The movie is famous for its incredible sword fights.

Le film est célèbre pour ses incroyables combats à l'épée.

Compound noun 'sword fights' used as a plural noun.

He fights his desire to eat chocolate while on a diet.

Il combat son envie de manger du chocolat pendant son régime.

Verb 'fights' used for an internal psychological struggle.

The two countries have had several border fights.

Les deux pays ont eu plusieurs combats à la frontière.

Plural noun 'fights' in a geopolitical context.

The government fights to keep inflation under control.

Le gouvernement se bat pour maintenir l'inflation sous contrôle.

Verb 'fights' used for institutional or economic effort.

The internal fights within the party led to its defeat.

Les luttes internes au sein du parti ont conduit à sa défaite.

Plural noun 'fights' used for political infighting.

She bravely fights the disease despite the difficult treatment.

Elle combat courageusement la maladie malgré le traitement difficile.

Verb 'fights' modified by the adverb 'bravely'.

The union fights for better working conditions and higher pay.

Le syndicat se bat pour de meilleures conditions de travail et des salaires plus élevés.

Verb 'fights' used in a labor relations context.

The documentary details the many fights for independence in Africa.

Le documentaire détaille les nombreux combats pour l'indépendance en Afrique.

Plural noun 'fights' used for historical movements.

He fights against the stereotype that men shouldn't show emotion.

Il se bat contre le stéréotype selon lequel les hommes ne devraient pas montrer d'émotion.

Verb 'fights' used for social or cultural resistance.

The city fights a losing battle against rising sea levels.

La ville mène une bataille perdue d'avance contre la montée du niveau de la mer.

Idiomatic use of 'fights a losing battle'.

There were intense fights over the ownership of the company.

Il y a eu des luttes intenses pour la propriété de l'entreprise.

Plural noun 'fights' modified by 'intense'.

The philosopher fights the notion that truth is purely subjective.

Le philosophe combat l'idée que la vérité est purement subjective.

Verb 'fights' used for intellectual or academic opposition.

The film depicts the brutal street fights of the late nineteenth century.

Le film dépeint les brutales bagarres de rue de la fin du XIXe siècle.

Plural noun 'fights' used in a historical narrative context.

She fights to reconcile her career ambitions with her personal life.

Elle se bat pour concilier ses ambitions professionnelles avec sa vie personnelle.

Verb 'fights' used for complex internal conflict.

The legal fights surrounding the patent lasted for over a decade.

Les batailles juridiques entourant le brevet ont duré plus d'une décennie.

Plural noun 'fights' emphasizing duration and complexity.

The protagonist fights the existential dread of modern existence.

Le protagoniste combat l'angoisse existentielle de l'existence moderne.

Verb 'fights' used for abstract philosophical struggle.

The organization fights systemic corruption within the government.

L'organisation combat la corruption systémique au sein du gouvernement.

Verb 'fights' used for large-scale institutional reform.

The poet fights the limitations of language to express deep sorrow.

Le poète combat les limites du langage pour exprimer une profonde tristesse.

Verb 'fights' used for artistic or creative struggle.

The various fights for dominance in the tech industry are fascinating.

Les divers combats pour la domination dans l'industrie technologique sont fascinants.

Plural noun 'fights' used for market competition.

The author fights against the homogenization of global culture.

L'auteur se bat contre l'homogénéisation de la culture mondiale.

Verb 'fights' used for high-level cultural critique.

The intricate fights for power in the royal court were legendary.

Les luttes de pouvoir complexes à la cour royale étaient légendaires.

Plural noun 'fights' modified by 'intricate'.

He fights the urge to succumb to cynicism in a world of soundbites.

Il combat l'envie de succomber au cynisme dans un monde de petites phrases.

Verb 'fights' used for sophisticated psychological resistance.

The academic paper analyzes the fights over narrative in post-war literature.

L'article académique analyse les luttes sur le récit dans la littérature d'après-guerre.

Plural noun 'fights' used in a literary analysis context.

She fights for a vision of the future that prioritizes ethics over profit.

Elle se bat pour une vision de l'avenir qui donne la priorité à l'éthique sur le profit.

Verb 'fights' used for visionary or ideological advocacy.

The legal fights for indigenous land rights are fraught with complexity.

Les batailles juridiques pour les droits fonciers autochtones sont pleines de complexité.

Plural noun 'fights' used for long-term socio-legal struggles.

The scientist fights the prevailing dogma with groundbreaking evidence.

Le scientifique combat le dogme dominant avec des preuves révolutionnaires.

Verb 'fights' used for challenging established scientific ideas.

The historical record is a series of fights for the soul of the nation.

Le récit historique est une série de combats pour l'âme de la nation.

Plural noun 'fights' used as a metaphor for national identity.

Colocações comuns

Street fights

Legal fights

Fights back

Fights for

Family fights

Fights off

Dog fights

Political fights

Fights against

Prize fights

Frases Comuns

Have fights

Pick fights

Fights like cat and dog

Fights a losing battle

Fights fire with fire

Fights for breath

Fights the urge

Fights to the finish

Fights tooth and nail

Fights his way

Frequentemente confundido com

fights vs Flights

Refers to travel by airplane. Example: 'I have two flights today' vs 'I saw two fights today'.

fights vs Frights

Refers to sudden feelings of fear. Example: 'The movie gave me many frights'.

fights vs Fits

Refers to something being the right size or a sudden burst of emotion/illness. Example: 'The shoe fits' vs 'He fights'.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Fights a lone battle"

To struggle for something without any help or support from others.

As the only person concerned about the environment, he fights a lone battle in his office.

Neutral

"Fights shy of"

To avoid doing something because you are nervous, afraid, or dislike it.

He usually fights shy of public speaking because he is very introverted.

Informal

"Fights for one's life"

To be in a very dangerous situation where you are trying to survive a serious injury or illness.

The victim of the accident is currently in the hospital and fights for his life.

Neutral

"Fights dirty"

To use unfair, dishonest, or unethical methods to win a conflict or achieve a goal.

In politics, some candidates are known because they fights dirty during the election campaign.

Informal

"Fights the good fight"

To continue struggling for something that is morally right or beneficial, even if it is difficult.

Despite the setbacks, the activist continues and fights the good fight for social justice.

Literary / Formal

"Fights to a standstill"

A situation where two sides fight so equally that neither can win or make progress.

The two armies have fights to a standstill along the border for several months.

Neutral

"Fights an uphill battle"

To struggle against very difficult odds or a situation that requires a huge amount of effort.

Starting a new business in this economy means she fights an uphill battle every day.

Neutral

"Fights like a tiger"

To fight with great courage, strength, and ferocity.

When her children were threatened, she fights like a tiger to protect them.

Informal

"Fights one's corner"

To defend one's own interests, opinions, or position in an argument or competition.

During the meeting, everyone had a chance to speak, and she really fights her corner well.

Neutral

"Fights the power"

To resist or struggle against an established authority or oppressive system.

The rebellious teenager always fights the power of the school administration.

Slang / Informal

Fácil de confundir

fights vs Struggles

Both involve effort against an obstacle.

Fights is more active and aggressive; struggles is often more passive, internal, or prolonged.

He fights the attacker (active); He struggles with math (prolonged effort).

fights vs Arguments

Both involve disagreement.

Arguments are primarily verbal and intellectual; fights are more emotional and can be physical.

They had an argument about the bill; They had a fight and stopped talking.

fights vs Battles

Both involve combat.

Battles are usually larger, more organized, and part of a larger war; fights can be small and spontaneous.

The battle lasted three days; The fight lasted three minutes.

fights vs Conflicts

Both describe opposition.

Conflict is a broader, more formal term that can describe abstract states of disagreement.

There is a conflict of interest; There were fights in the street.

fights vs Disputes

Both involve disagreement.

Disputes are usually formal, legal, or official; fights are more personal and emotional.

A border dispute between nations; A fight between neighbors.

Padrões de frases

Subject + fights + Object.

The boy fights the girl.

Subject + have + fights.

They have many fights.

Subject + fights + for + Noun.

She fights for her rights.

Subject + fights + off + Noun.

He fights off the flu.

There are + Adjective + fights.

There are constant fights in that house.

Subject + fights + a losing battle.

The company fights a losing battle.

The + Adjective + fights + over + Noun.

The legal fights over the property were long.

Subject + fights + the notion that + Clause.

He fights the notion that all people are selfish.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

Como usar

frequency

Very common in daily speech, news, sports, and literature.

Erros comuns

They fights every day. → They fight every day.
The verb 'fights' is only for singular subjects (he, she, it). Plural subjects like 'they' or 'the boys' use 'fight'.
I saw two fight yesterday. → I saw two fights yesterday.
When referring to more than one event, you must use the plural noun 'fights'.
She fights with her exams. → She struggles with her exams.
'Fights' is usually for an opponent or a cause. For difficult tasks like exams, 'struggles' is the more natural word.
He is fighting for his life in the hospital. → He is fighting for his life in the hospital.
Wait, this is actually correct! A common mistake is using 'fights' when the continuous 'is fighting' is needed for an ongoing situation.
The legal fights was very long. → The legal fights were very long.
Since 'fights' is a plural noun, the verb must also be plural ('were' instead of 'was').

Dicas

Watch Your Subjects

Always remember that 'fights' as a verb only goes with singular subjects like 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' or a single person's name. If you have more than one person, use 'fight' without the 's.' This is one of the most common mistakes for B1 learners, so double-check your sentences for this rule.

Use Strong Adjectives

To make your writing better, pair the noun 'fights' with descriptive adjectives. Instead of just saying 'they had fights,' say 'they had bitter fights' or 'they had frequent fights.' This gives your reader much more information about the situation and makes your English sound more natural and advanced.

Master the 'TS' Sound

The ending of 'fights' can be tricky. Make sure you pronounce both the 't' and the 's' clearly. It should sound like a short hiss at the end of the word. Practice by saying 'cat's' or 'hat's' and then apply that same ending to 'fights.' Clear endings are key to being understood by native speakers.

Metaphorical vs. Literal

Don't just use 'fights' for physical hitting. Remember its powerful metaphorical uses. You can 'fight' for your dreams, 'fight' a bad habit, or 'fight' for a friend. Using the word in these abstract ways will help you express more complex thoughts and emotions in English, which is a major goal at the B1 level.

Avoid Overuse

While 'fights' is a great word, try not to use it in every sentence. If you are writing a story about a conflict, mix it up with words like 'struggle,' 'argument,' or 'clash.' This variety makes your writing more interesting to read and shows that you have a wide vocabulary. Variety is the spice of good writing!

Listen for Phrasal Verbs

When you hear 'fights,' listen carefully for the words that follow it, like 'back,' 'off,' or 'for.' These small words completely change the meaning of the sentence. 'Fights back' is very different from 'fights for.' Training your ear to catch these prepositions will greatly improve your listening comprehension.

Use in Sports

If you like sports, 'fights' is a perfect word to use. Talk about boxing matches or MMA events using this word. It's the standard term in that community, so using it correctly will make you sound like an expert. You can ask friends, 'Did you see the fights last night?' to start a conversation.

Check Your Spelling

Be careful not to add an 'e' before the 's.' It is 'fights,' not 'fightes.' Also, make sure you don't confuse it with 'flights.' A quick spell-check or a second look at your work can save you from these simple but common spelling errors that can distract your reader.

Learn One Idiom a Day

Try to learn one idiom with 'fights' each day, like 'fighting a losing battle.' Use it in a sentence about your own life. This will help the word stick in your memory and make your English sound much more idiomatic and fluent. Idioms are the 'secret sauce' of sounding like a native speaker.

Understand the Tone

Remember that 'fights' is a strong word. If you use it to describe a small disagreement with a teacher or a boss, it might sound too aggressive. In professional settings, consider using 'disagreement' or 'differing opinions' to be more polite. Understanding the social 'weight' of a word is a key part of advanced language learning.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'F-I-G-H-T-S' as 'Forceful Individuals Getting Heated Through Struggles.' This reminds you that it involves both physical force and emotional heat.

Associação visual

Imagine two boxers in a ring with the letter 'S' shaped like a snake coiled around them, representing the plural 'fights' or the singular action 'he fights.'

Word Web

War Boxing Argument Struggle Resistance Brawl Conflict Victory

Desafio

Try to write a paragraph using 'fights' as a noun three times and as a verb three times, ensuring all six uses are in different contexts (e.g., sports, health, politics).

Origem da palavra

The word 'fights' comes from the Old English word 'feohtan,' which meant to fight, combat, or strive. This Old English root is derived from the Proto-Germanic word '*fehtanan.' Over centuries, the spelling and pronunciation evolved, but the core meaning of active struggle remained consistent.

Significado original: The original meaning was specifically related to physical combat or hand-to-hand struggle between individuals or groups.

Germanic (related to the Dutch 'vechten' and German 'fechten').

Contexto cultural

Be careful when using 'fights' to describe sensitive situations like domestic abuse or serious trauma; more specific and sensitive language is often required.

In the US and UK, 'fights' is a common term in both sports and politics, often used to frame issues as a battle between two sides.

The movie 'Fight Club' (1999), which explores themes of masculinity and consumerism. The song 'The Fight Song' by Rachel Platten, which is about personal resilience. The phrase 'The Good Fight,' often used to describe a morally worthy struggle.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Sports

Title fights
Underground fights
Professional fights
The referee stops the fights

Family/Relationships

Sibling fights
Domestic fights
Petty fights
Stop having fights

Health/Medicine

Fights infection
Fights for survival
Fights the disease
The body fights back

Politics/Social Issues

Fights for equality
Fights against corruption
Legislative fights
The fight for freedom

Personal Growth

Fights one's fears
Fights the urge
Fights for a dream
Internal fights

Iniciadores de conversa

"Do you think that small fights are a normal part of a healthy relationship?"

"Have you ever seen any professional boxing or MMA fights in person?"

"What is a cause that you think everyone should fights for in today's world?"

"How do you usually react when someone tries to pick fights with you?"

"Do you believe that the body fights better when the mind is positive?"

Temas para diário

Describe a time when you had to fights for something you truly believed in. What was the outcome?

Write about the common fights you had with your siblings or friends when you were a child.

Reflect on an internal struggle you currently have. How do you fights the negative thoughts?

If you were a leader, what are the three most important things you would fights for?

Analyze a movie or book where the protagonist fights a difficult enemy. What did they learn?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Not necessarily. While physical or angry fights are usually negative, 'fights' can also describe positive things like 'fighting for justice' or 'fighting a disease.' In these cases, the word represents courage, determination, and resilience. It shows that someone is willing to work hard to achieve a good result or overcome a difficult challenge. Therefore, the meaning depends heavily on the context in which it is used.

'Fight' is the base form of the verb or the singular noun. 'Fights' is the plural noun (more than one fight) or the third-person singular present verb (he/she/it fights). For example, 'They fight' (plural verb) vs 'He fights' (singular verb). Similarly, 'One fight' (singular noun) vs 'Two fights' (plural noun). Using the correct form is essential for proper English grammar.

You can, but it might sound a bit dramatic. For a small, unimportant disagreement, words like 'squabble,' 'spat,' or 'tiff' are often more appropriate. 'Fights' usually implies a higher level of intensity, anger, or physical action. If you use 'fights' for everything, people might think your life is more chaotic than it actually is! It is better to reserve 'fights' for more serious conflicts.

You don't! The 'gh' in 'fights' is completely silent. The word is pronounced exactly like 'fites.' This is a common feature in English words like 'light,' 'night,' and 'right.' Historically, the 'gh' was pronounced, but over hundreds of years, the sound disappeared while the spelling remained the same. Just focus on the 'i' and the 'ts' sounds.

'Fights back' is a phrasal verb that means to defend yourself when someone attacks you, or to take action against something that is causing you trouble. For example, if a company lowers its prices, a competitor 'fights back' by launching a new advertising campaign. It implies a reactive struggle where you refuse to be defeated or bullied. It is a very common and useful expression in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

'Fights' is a neutral word that can be used in almost any setting. It is common in informal conversation ('My kids have fights'), but it is also perfectly acceptable in formal writing ('The legal fights were extensive'). However, in very formal or academic contexts, you might choose more specific words like 'conflicts,' 'disputes,' or 'contestations' to sound more precise. It all depends on the tone you want to set.

Yes, absolutely. We often use 'fights' to describe animals struggling with each other, such as 'The dogs had several fights' or 'The male lion fights to protect his pride.' It is a natural way to describe animal behavior involving physical conflict. In these cases, it is almost always literal and refers to physical combat rather than verbal arguments.

A 'street fight' is an informal, often illegal physical fight that happens in a public place like a street or a park. It is usually unorganized and can be quite dangerous. In movies and video games, street fights are a common theme, often involving characters who are tough and skilled in combat. In real life, they are generally seen as a sign of social disorder or personal aggression.

This is a very serious expression used when someone is in a life-threatening situation, such as a severe illness or a major accident. It means they are using all their physical and mental strength to survive. For example, 'After the crash, he was in the ICU fighting for his life.' It conveys a sense of extreme urgency and the highest possible stakes. It is a very powerful and emotional phrase.

They are similar, but 'battles' are usually much larger and more organized. A 'battle' is often part of a larger war and involves many people and a specific strategy. A 'fight' can be a small, personal conflict between just two people. However, in metaphorical use, they are often interchangeable, such as 'fighting a battle against cancer' or 'fighting a fight against cancer.' 'Battle' usually sounds more epic or significant.