"Toe-to-toe" is an idiom that is often used to mean a direct confrontation or competition. However, there are several synonyms available that can be used in place of this phrase. Words such as contest, face-off, duel, battle, and rivalry can all be substituted for "toe-to-toe," depending on the context of the situation. These synonyms can help provide different shades of meaning and tone to the sentence or conversation. For instance, a face-off may imply a more serious and intense confrontation, while a rivalry may suggest a more lighthearted or playful competition. Using synonyms can help make writing more dynamic and engaging for readers.