go to war

• In einen bewaffneten Konflikt oder militärische Auseinandersetzungen gegen einen Feind eintreten; wird auch im übertragenen Sinn verwendet, um den Beginn entschlossener oder aggressiver Bemühungen gegen ein Problem oder einen Gegner zu bezeichnen.

To engage in armed conflict or military action against an enemy; also used figuratively to mean starting a determined or aggressive effort against a problem or opponent.

1. Start a military conflictB2formal

   To begin or engage in a war or armed conflict with an enemy.

   In den Krieg ziehen

   • The country decided to go to war after the invasion.
   • They went to war to defend their borders.
   • Many nations went to war during the 20th century.

2. Engage in a serious disputeB2informal

   To enter into a serious or intense conflict or argument, often in a non-military context.

   In einen ernsten Konflikt treten

   • The two companies went to war over the patent rights.
   • They went to war with each other over the inheritance.
   • The politicians went to war over the new policy.