crossed swords

After her husband's boss, the Illinois House speaker, crossed swords with the governor last year, she was abruptly fired.

Since then I have crossed swords with him too, and always I must confess with keen enjoyment.

The two men crossed swords, and for some minutes a furious clashing of steel could be heard.

One of his last experiences was a pathetic interview with Talleyrand, with whom he had often crossed swords in debate.

But it was the Princess who spoke from where she stood behind the crossed swords of her guards.

Again Harry went with him to his room and the lad stopped again under the crossed swords.