mano a mano
noun
Definitions
A head-on conflict or direct competition.
Example: The public debate became a heated mano a mano between the two leading candidates.
Synonyms:duel
adjective
Definitions
In close confrontation
Example: We sat tensely in the courtroom while the mano-a-mano struggle ensued between the two skilled lawyers.
adverb
Definitions
Characterized by head-to-head competition or conflict.
Example: The newcomer brashly engaged the veteran player mano a mano.