contretemps

American  

[kon-truh-tahn, kawntr^uh-tahn] / ˈkɒn trəˌtɑ̃, kɔ̃trəˈtɑ̃ /

noun

PLURAL

contretemps

1. an inopportune occurrence; an embarrassing mischance.

   He caused a minor contretemps by knocking over his drink.

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contretemps British  

/ kɔ̃trətɑ̃, ˈkɒntrəˌtɑːn /

noun

1. an awkward or difficult situation or mishap

2. fencing a feint made with the purpose of producing a counterthrust from one's opponent

3. a small disagreement that is rather embarrassing

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Etymology

Origin of contretemps

1675–85; < French, equivalent to contre- counter- + temps time (< Latin tempus ); perhaps alteration (by folk etymology) of Middle French contrestant, present participle of contrester to oppose; contrast

Example Sentences

The contretemps here echoes spats in the United States about monuments glorifying Confederate generals: Critics decry the displays as exalting traitors and white supremacists, while others argue that the statues just reflect history.

From Los Angeles Times

However, as has been seen in recent years, the inherent clash of personalities there does break out into the open sometimes, especially when they have an on-track contretemps.

From BBC

Innocently hang a flag the wrong way — or hang the wrong flag — and what was supposed to be a celebration can become a diplomatic contretemps.

From Los Angeles Times

When Mr. Wicker and some colleagues threatened to resign, Mr. Sulzberger withdrew the proposed appointment, and the widely publicized contretemps ended with bruised feelings all around.

From New York Times

It’s enough to make an artistic director throw up a white flag, though Sachs’ decision to retire had nothing to do with this latest contretemps.

From Los Angeles Times