a bitter argument

USAGE SUMMARY

"a bitter argument" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a heated, angry, and unpleasant disagreement or debate between two or more people. Example: The couple had a bitter argument over how to handle their finances, resulting in them sleeping in separate rooms for a week.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

A bitter argument ensues.

The New Yorker

"We may end up turning a decent debate into a bitter argument.

The Guardian

A few months later, Hergé had a bitter argument with an old friend, Philippe Gérard.

The Economist

Glen reacts with bewildered outrage; he and Grace have a bitter argument, and they break up.

The New Yorker

"I got into a bitter argument with that guy at the Magic Castle last month.

The New Yorker

South Africa 1, Slovenia 0 Slovenia sent home its star, midfielder Zlatko Zahovic, after a bitter argument with his coach.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

In the weeks since, the debate over the company has turned into a high-stakes drama on Wall Street, drawing in prominent investors and even leading to an bitter argument on live television.

The New York Times

What happened to Grier reflects a continuing bitter argument on the issue.

The New York Times - Sports

The multi-millionaire art collector and his wife were photographed at their table outside the famous Scott's seafood restaurant in Mayfair eight days ago on Saatchi's 70th birthday during a seemingly bitter argument which left Lawson in tears.

Independent

Australia's brief political truce over last week's shipwreck off Christmas Island was replaced by an increasingly bitter argument about the future direction of the country's refugee policy yesterday, as first-hand accounts of the tragedy began to emerge.

Independent

The shuttles, often referred to as 'Google Buses,' have become frontline in an increasingly bitter argument between the younger, newer and wealthier technology workers that call San Francisco home, and long-time residents concerned about the balkanization of the city's less well off.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bitter argument" when you want to emphasize the emotional intensity and negativity of a disagreement. It suggests a deeper level of conflict than a simple disagreement or debate.

Common error

While "a bitter argument" is acceptable in news and general writing, avoid it in highly formal or academic contexts. Opt for more neutral terms like "disagreement" or "dispute" to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bitter argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific instance of disagreement characterized by strong negative emotions. Ludwig shows numerous examples of its usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bitter argument" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a disagreement filled with strong negative emotions. As highlighted by Ludwig, its grammatical correctness is verified, and it frequently appears in news and media. While versatile, it's important to consider the context; avoid it in highly formal settings where a more neutral term would be preferable. Remember to use alternatives like "a heated dispute" or "an acrimonious debate" to add nuance to your writing, and be mindful of the potential overuse in very formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heated dispute

Emphasizes the intensity and emotional charge of the disagreement.

an acrimonious debate

Highlights the sharpness and potential for personal attacks within the discussion.

a contentious exchange

Focuses on the presence of disagreement and the potential for argument.

a fierce quarrel

Underscores the intensity and potentially aggressive nature of the disagreement.

a sharp disagreement

Highlights the clarity and intensity of the differing opinions.

an intense conflict

Focuses on the high level of tension and opposition.

a violent clash

Emphasizes the potential for aggressive or destructive behavior during the disagreement.

an angry confrontation

Highlights the presence of anger and direct opposition between parties.

a rancorous discussion

Focuses on the bitterness and resentment present in the discussion.

a hostile exchange

Emphasizes the unfriendly and potentially aggressive nature of the communication.

FAQs

How can I use "a bitter argument" in a sentence?

You can use "a bitter argument" to describe a heated and unpleasant disagreement, for example: "Their differing political views often led to "a bitter argument" during family dinners."

What are some alternatives to "a bitter argument"?

Consider using alternatives like "a heated dispute", "an acrimonious debate", or "a fierce quarrel" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a bitter argument" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a bitter argument" may sound too emotional for formal contexts. Opt for more neutral phrases like "a serious disagreement" or "a significant dispute".

What makes an argument "bitter"?

An argument becomes "bitter" when it involves strong negative emotions such as anger, resentment, and hostility. It suggests a deep-seated conflict and a breakdown in communication.