Know Your English (May 2001)

Know your English

What is the difference ``battle'' and ``war''?

The word ``war'' is normally used to refer to the duration of fighting between two factions - it could be two countries, states, etc. A war may last a few days or a few years. We talk about the Hundred Years War, etc. Usually in a war we have very heavy casualities. A ``battle'' on the other hand, is usually fought between two armies or two groups. A battle doesn't usually last as long as a war. A war can consist of several battles. An army may lose several battles, but ultimately win the war. During World War II, Germany won many battles, but ended up losing the war.


Source:
The Hindu daily, Tuesday, May 15, 2001