a fierce argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fierce argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a heated or intense disagreement between individuals or groups. Example: "During the meeting, there was a fierce argument about the proposed budget cuts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

While there, the two got into a fierce argument.

The New York Times - Magazine

A fierce argument broke out when some of the men proposed arming themselves.

The New Yorker

I recall a fierce argument in government over the name to be given to a reformed House of Lords.

The Guardian - Books

No Rory or Dustin, Jordan or Jason, but two gnarled pros in a fierce argument for glory.

The Guardian - Sport

Martinez-Regino says that a fierce argument ensued, and that after about 20 minutes, she walked out.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it has another dimension: a fierce argument over whether federal science was torqued to paint the oyster farm as a bad ecological actor.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Yet, despite this diplomatic gloss, there seems to me a clear and fierce argument, in his comments about Hare and elsewhere, with the class bias of English theatre.

The Guardian

Riefenstahl's redemption, beyond the military courts, was a subject of fierce argument for the rest of her very long life — she died in 2003, a decade after Dietrich, at the age of a hundred and one.

The New Yorker

A year ago there was fierce argument about the wisdom of military intervention against President Assad in Syria after his alleged use of chemical weapons.

BBC

Also frightening, but in a different way, is Bill McKibben's fierce argument in Rolling Stone about global warming.

The New Yorker

Two decades of fierce argument has indelibly marked a good deal of the research.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fierce argument" to describe disagreements that are characterized by strong emotions, strong opinions, and a high level of engagement from all parties involved. Consider the context to make sure the intensity of the phrase matches the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a fierce argument" for minor disagreements or simple misunderstandings. This phrase implies a significant level of conflict and using it inappropriately can sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

A fierce argument functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a particular instance of a disagreement characterized by intensity and strong emotion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correctness and usage across various sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a fierce argument" accurately describes a heated and intense disagreement, suitable for contexts where emotions and opinions run high. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and demonstrates its frequent use in various forms of media, most notably in news and media, indicating a neutral register. While alternatives like "a heated debate" or "an intense dispute" exist, "a fierce argument" specifically emphasizes the emotional and potentially contentious nature of the conflict. When employing this phrase, ensure the intensity aligns with the situation to avoid hyperbole.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heated dispute

Emphasizes the emotional intensity and potential public nature of the disagreement.

an intense debate

Highlights the intellectual and structured nature of the argument, focusing on differing viewpoints.

a vehement disagreement

Focuses on the passionate and forceful expression of opposing views.

a bitter quarrel

Suggests a more personal and resentful conflict, potentially long-lasting.

a strong contention

Implies a firm and unwavering stance in opposition to something.

a passionate clash

Emphasizes the emotional engagement and direct confrontation of opposing sides.

an acrimonious exchange

Highlights the bitterness and sharp, often unpleasant, nature of the interaction.

a heated exchange of words

Focuses specifically on the verbal aspect of the argument and its intensity.

a major conflict

Indicates a significant disagreement with potentially far-reaching consequences.

a serious disagreement

Highlights the importance and potential ramifications of the differing views.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a fierce argument" in a sentence?

Use "a fierce argument" to describe a high-stakes disagreement with strong emotional content. For example, "The proposal sparked "a fierce argument" among board members".

What are some alternatives to "a fierce argument" that I can use?

You can use alternatives like "a heated debate", "an intense dispute", or "a vehement disagreement" depending on the specific context and level of intensity.

Is there a difference between "a fierce argument" and "a heated discussion"?

"A fierce argument" implies a more intense and potentially hostile disagreement, whereas "a heated discussion" suggests a passionate but perhaps more civil exchange of ideas.

When is it appropriate to use "a fierce argument" instead of "a minor disagreement"?

Use "a fierce argument" when the disagreement involves strong emotions, deeply held beliefs, and significant consequences. Avoid it when describing simple misunderstandings or trivial differences of opinion.