‘War’: Not a word to be used lightly

Words matter to me. I make my living crafting them. Whether writing a column, a news story or a book, I spend my days weighing and measuring them – searching for the best turn of phrase to communicate a thought, an idea or a fact. Sometimes I play with them. Juggling them, nudging them to create content that elicits a reaction, a smile or a tear. Even when handled lightly, I understand their power on a printed page. And while not all words are meant to be taken literally, I think some should be. War is one of them/ Cindy Hval , SR Front Porch. More here.

Question: We talk about “war on Christmas.” And “War on urban renewal.” Should we use the word “war” to describe such issues?