all-out war
Unrestricted fighting or conflict. This phrase can be used literally or hyperbolically. I fear that an invasion will lead to all-out war. It is all-out war right now for that empty corner office.
all-out war
total war, as opposed to limited military actions or threats of war. We are now concerned about all-out war in the Middle East. Threats of all-out war caused many tourists to leave the country immediately.