The phrase "state of war" refers to a condition of hostility between countries or groups. There are many synonyms for this phrase that describe the same condition, including "conflict," "combat," "warfare," "fighting," and "hostilities." Some additional synonyms for "state of war" include "war footing," "military engagement," "belligerence," and "warlike state." Each of these synonyms describes a situation in which two or more opposing sides are engaged in a struggle for power, territory, or resources. Whether it is called a state of war, conflict, or any other synonym, the key concept is that it represents a situation in which there is a significant and ongoing struggle for supremacy.