In daily conversation, especially in informal or idiomatic English, the phrase get crosswise with someone might come up when talking about disagreements or conflicts. Though it may not be used as frequently as other expressions like get into an argument or fall out with someone, it holds a vivid, specific meaning. To get crosswise with someone suggests entering into a disagreement or being at odds with that person, whether due to differing opinions, personal disputes, or miscommunication. Understanding this phrase is helpful for both native speakers and English learners who want to grasp nuanced emotional and interpersonal expressions in the language.
Definition of Get Crosswise with Someone
To get crosswise with someone means to fall into disagreement, conflict, or misunderstanding with another person. The word crosswise implies a crossing of paths or ideas that do not align hence, conflict or friction. This expression typically refers to a situation where two people or groups are no longer in harmony or agreement.
Alternative Phrases with Similar Meaning:
- To be at odds with someone
- To fall out with someone
- To have a run-in with someone
- To clash with someone
- To rub someone the wrong way
While all these expressions describe conflict, get crosswise with someone often carries a slightly regional or older American tone, giving it a conversational charm.
Origins and Linguistic Background
The word crosswise itself comes from combining cross and wise, with wise meaning direction or orientation. Literally, it describes something that is placed diagonally or askew. When used figuratively in the phrase, it suggests two individuals whose positions or opinions are misaligned. Over time, this physical sense of misalignment evolved into a metaphor for disagreement or conflict.
Though the expression is more common in American English, especially in Southern or Midwestern regions, it can be understood universally in English-speaking contexts. It’s often used in informal conversation, literature, or storytelling to describe tension between people.
Examples of Usage in Sentences
To better understand how to use the phrase naturally, here are some sample sentences that show its meaning in context:
- Ever since the board meeting, Sarah has been crosswise with her manager over the budget cuts.
- You don’t want to get crosswise with the local sheriff in this town.
- He got crosswise with his business partner about the direction of the company.
- They used to be close, but something happened that put them crosswise with each other.
Each of these examples highlights some kind of conflict, either personal, professional, or situational, which causes tension or disagreement between individuals.
Common Reasons People Get Crosswise
Understanding why people might get crosswise with one another can provide further insight into how the phrase is used and the types of situations it describes.
Typical Causes of Conflict Include:
- Miscommunication: Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and disputes.
- Clashing values or priorities: People may have different goals or principles that cause friction.
- Personal disagreements: Issues like jealousy, pride, or hurt feelings can put people at odds.
- Professional disputes: Differences in work style or business decisions may lead to conflict.
- Betrayal or broken trust: When trust is lost, relationships can quickly turn sour.
Whether mild or severe, these situations can all result in people getting crosswise with each other.
Dealing with Conflict When You Get Crosswise
Conflict is a normal part of human relationships. However, how you handle it can determine whether the relationship recovers or deteriorates further. If you find yourself crosswise with someone, here are some strategies to consider:
1. Identify the Cause
Before attempting to resolve the conflict, it’s important to understand what caused it. Was it something you said? A decision you made? Or a misunderstanding? Clarifying the issue is the first step to resolution.
2. Communicate Honestly
Open and respectful communication can resolve many conflicts. Express how you feel without attacking the other person, and be ready to listen to their perspective as well.
3. Apologize If Necessary
If you played a part in the disagreement, don’t hesitate to apologize. A sincere apology can go a long way in mending a fractured relationship.
4. Seek Compromise
Try to find middle ground where both parties can feel heard and respected. A willingness to compromise shows maturity and empathy.
5. Know When to Let Go
In some cases, the relationship may be too damaged to repair, or the person may be unwilling to reconcile. If that’s the case, it’s okay to move on and set boundaries.
When It’s Beneficial to Be Crosswise
Interestingly, getting crosswise with someone isn’t always negative. Sometimes, standing up for your beliefs or values may put you at odds with others but it’s the right thing to do. In such cases, conflict can be a sign of strength or moral conviction.
Situations Where Conflict Is Necessary:
- Defending a colleague from unfair treatment
- Standing against unethical behavior
- Speaking up about workplace issues
- Protecting personal boundaries
In these cases, getting crosswise with someone may cause tension in the short term, but it can lead to greater respect or necessary change in the long term.
Cultural and Workplace Implications
In a professional setting, being crosswise with a manager, client, or co-worker can have consequences. It may lead to tension in meetings, slow down collaboration, or even impact career progression. However, with the right approach, it can also lead to healthier boundaries and better understanding between colleagues.
Culturally, different regions may view conflict differently. In some cultures, direct confrontation is seen as honest and healthy, while in others, it’s avoided to maintain harmony. Understanding these differences is essential, especially in international or diverse work environments.
To get crosswise with someone is to fall into disagreement or conflict, often due to misunderstandings, differing values, or emotional tensions. Though it’s a figurative expression, its meaning is deeply relatable and applies to many types of relationships personal, professional, and social. By understanding the phrase and the dynamics behind it, we become better equipped to manage conflict, communicate effectively, and navigate the complexities of human interaction. Whether you seek to resolve the issue or stand firm in your position, knowing how to handle being crosswise with someone is an important part of emotional intelligence and personal growth.