apple of discord: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

It comes from Greek mythology. Eris, the goddess of discord, threw a golden apple inscribed 'for the fairest' among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Their rivalry to claim it indirectly led to the Trojan War.

It is very rare in casual speech. It is mostly used in formal writing, journalism, or literary contexts. Using it in everyday conversation might sound deliberately educated or theatrical.

They are very close synonyms. 'Apple of discord' is more literary and often implies the conflict has wider, more serious, or more dramatic consequences (like a war). 'Bone of contention' is more common and can be used for everyday arguments.

Both can be correct, depending on context. Use 'the' when referring to a specific, already-mentioned cause (e.g., 'The budget was the apple of discord.') Use 'an' when introducing it as one possible cause among others or in a general sense (e.g., 'It became an apple of discord.')

A cause of argument, strife, or conflict.

Apple of discord is usually literary/formal in register.

Apple of discord: in British English it is pronounced /ˌæp.l̩ əv ˈdɪs.kɔːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌæp.l̩ əv ˈdɪs.kɔːrd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.