noun
two equal rivals; two tigers
Idiomatic expression for two powerful, evenly matched rivals. The literal meaning is 'two tigers', evoking a fierce, balanced confrontation.
両虎相打つ時は、必ず一虎傷つく。
When two tigers fight, one is sure to be wounded.
この業界では、あの二社はまさに両虎の争いだ。
In this industry, those two companies are truly a clash of two tigers.
Compound of 両 (both, two) and 虎 (tiger). The expression is derived from the image of two tigers fighting, symbolizing a fierce struggle between evenly matched opponents.