a protracted dispute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a protracted dispute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a disagreement or conflict that has lasted for a long time, often implying complexity or difficulty in resolution. Example: "The negotiations between the two countries have been hindered by a protracted dispute over territorial claims."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

KABUL, Afghanistan -- New corruption prosecutions have ground to a halt here as the result of a protracted dispute within the government over the limits of American-backed investigators who have pursued high-ranking Afghans, according to American and Afghan officials.

The New York Times

But a protracted dispute between Mr. Farrell's heirs and the Ventura County Harbor Department, from which they lease the space for 15 piers, could result in the eviction of about 500 boat owners.

The New York Times

But the contract was canceled a year ago after a protracted dispute over the software.

The New York Times

Hamilton has been in a protracted dispute with Kuester.

The New York Times - Sports

(They contend it was reasonable, given all the legal uncertainties of a protracted dispute).

The New York Times

At that point Kia said it would recall the vehicles to avoid "a protracted dispute".

The New York Times

But, the automaker said, it was agreeing to a recall "to avoid a protracted dispute with the agency".

The New York Times

Separately, the company is in a protracted dispute with AMC Networks AMCC, IFC and WE tv have been off Dish's channel lineup since July.

The New York Times

Macmillan recently struck such an agreement with Amazon.com after a protracted dispute that led Amazon to remove, briefly, Macmillan's electronic and physical books from its site.

The New York Times - Tech

Five months passed between Mr. Mikati's appointment and Monday's announcement, a protracted dispute that many Lebanese saw as emblematic of the country's political dysfunction.

The New York Times

Following a protracted dispute with the actors' union, however, the rugged landscapes look set to be abandoned – possibly in favour of a British studio.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing legal or political situations, use "a protracted dispute" to convey the sense of a complex and lengthy disagreement. This phrase adds a layer of seriousness and formality suitable for such contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a protracted dispute" in casual conversation. The phrase carries a formal tone and is better suited for professional or academic writing rather than everyday discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a protracted dispute" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object within a sentence. It describes a specific instance of conflict or disagreement that is characterized by its extended duration. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a protracted dispute" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a long-lasting conflict or disagreement. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for formal contexts and appears frequently in news media, academic writing, and encyclopedic entries. While alternatives exist, like "a prolonged disagreement", the term "protracted" adds a nuance of weariness or difficulty. When using this phrase, consider the formal tone and ensure it aligns with the overall style of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prolonged disagreement

Emphasizes the extended duration of the disagreement.

a drawn-out conflict

Highlights the extended and often difficult nature of the conflict.

a long-standing feud

Focuses on a bitter, ongoing quarrel, often between families or groups.

an extended controversy

Stresses the public and often heated nature of the disagreement.

a continuing argument

Highlights the ongoing nature of the argument without necessarily implying resolution.

a never-ending debate

Suggests that the debate has no foreseeable end.

a persistent quarrel

Emphasizes the stubborn and unwavering nature of the disagreement.

a lingering standoff

Focuses on the lack of progress and stalemate in the situation.

a chronic contention

Highlights the ongoing and problematic nature of the disagreement.

a sustained opposition

Emphasizes the continuous resistance or disagreement.

FAQs

How can I use "a protracted dispute" in a sentence?

You can use "a protracted dispute" to describe a disagreement or conflict that has lasted for a long time. For example, "The company's financial troubles stemmed from "a protracted dispute" with its suppliers".

What are some alternatives to "a protracted dispute"?

Alternatives to "a protracted dispute" include "a prolonged disagreement", "a long-standing feud", or "an extended controversy" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "a protracted dispute" and "a simple disagreement"?

"A protracted dispute" implies a long duration, complexity, and significant impact, while "a simple disagreement" suggests a minor and easily resolved difference of opinion.

Is "protracted" the same as "prolonged" in "a protracted dispute"?

While "protracted" and "prolonged" are similar, "protracted" often implies a sense of weariness or difficulty associated with the length of the dispute, while "prolonged" simply indicates an extended duration.