enmity
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enmity
A state of deep, lasting dislike and mutual hostility between people, groups, or states.
Die Feindschaft zwischen den beiden Königreichen führte schließlich zum Krieg.
The enmity between the two kingdoms eventually led to war.
'Feindschaft' (enmity) is derived from the noun 'der Feind' (the enemy). The ending '-schaft' forms an abstract noun that describes a state or relationship, just like 'Freundschaft' (friendship) from 'Freund' (friend).
Aus einer alten Freundschaft wurde über die Jahre eine tiefe Feindschaft.
Over the years, an old friendship turned into deep enmity.
To name the parties involved, you use 'zwischen' (between) for a mutual relationship, or 'mit' (with) to describe the relationship from one perspective. Pay attention to the difference.
Die Feindschaft zwischen den beiden Familien ist legendär.
The enmity between the two families is legendary.
Common verbs are 'es herrscht Feindschaft' (there is enmity) or 'eine Feindschaft beenden' (to end an enmity). Adjectives that are often used include 'tief' (deep), 'alt' (old), or 'offen' (open).
Zwischen den Brüdern herrschte eine tiefe Feindschaft.
There was deep enmity between the brothers.
war
'der Krieg' and 'die Feindschaft' both have to do with strong opposition and conflict. 'Krieg' usually means an armed conflict between states or groups. Colloquially, it can also mean a very fierce dispute. 'Feindschaft' describes more the ongoing state: two people, groups, or states strongly dislike each other and act against each other. An enmity does not have to be openly violent. A war can arise from enmity, but enmity is not automatically war.
Zwischen den beiden Nachbarn herrscht seit Jahren eine tiefe Feindschaft.
There has been deep enmity between the two neighbors for years.
Viele Familien mussten während des Krieges ihre Heimat verlassen.
Many families had to leave their homeland during the war.