dispute

The word “dispute” means a disagreement or argument between people, often a formal or ongoing one. In plain terms, a disagreement, or to argue that something is not true or fair.

“Dispute” is pronounced dihs-PYOOT (/ˈdɪs.pjut/ in IPA).

Here is “dispute” used in a sentence: “The two companies settled their dispute out of court.”

Words with a similar meaning to “dispute” include argument, argy-bargy, altercation, contention, barney and bawl out.

The opposite of “dispute” — its antonyms — are accord, agreement, assent, concord and concordance.

Depending on how it is used, “dispute” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “dispute” comes from Latin. From Old French desputer, from Latin disputare, "to examine or discuss," from dis- ("apart") + putare ("to reckon, consider").

“Dispute” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

An argument is any exchange of opposing views and can be brief, while a dispute usually refers to a more serious, formal, or prolonged disagreement, often between parties such as companies, neighbours, or nations. All disputes involve argument, but not every argument becomes a dispute.

Use "dispute" when you specifically challenge the truth or validity of a claim, as in "she disputed the charges." "Argue" is broader and can mean to state a case, discuss, or simply quarrel.

A debate is an organised, often civil discussion of a topic from different sides, while a dispute implies genuine conflict and disagreement. A debate can be friendly and structured; a dispute rarely is.

Common phrases include "in dispute," "settle a dispute," "legal dispute," "pay dispute," and "beyond dispute." The last means something is certain and cannot reasonably be questioned.