war of nerves

noun

1. a conflict using psychological techniques, as propaganda, threats, and false rumors, rather than direct violence, in order to confuse, thwart, or intimidate an enemy.

war of nerves

noun

1. the use of psychological tactics against an opponent, such as shattering his morale by the use of propaganda

Word History and Origins

Origin of war of nerves¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Idioms and Phrases

A conflict characterized by psychological pressure such as threats and rumors, aiming to undermine an enemy's morale. For example, Her lawyer said the university had waged a war of nerves to persuade his client to resign . This expression alludes to tactics used in World War II. [Late 1930s]

Example Sentences

And for once many in Israel, Lebanon and Iran have something in common - a war of nerves.

From BBC

In this hybrid war of nerves fought around islands, islets, reefs and fishing grounds, the “Christmas Convoy” embraces some of the “grey zone” military tactics that China pioneered.

From Washington Times

The waters south of China are the theater for a tense war of nerves between the forces of China and of the U.S. and its allies.

From Washington Times

While no further drone intrusions have been registered, balloon launches have in fact been serious business in the war of nerves on the tense, divided Korean peninsula.

From Washington Times

This weekend’s developments come one week after the North opened a new front in the peninsula’s war of nerves.

From Washington Times