a quarrel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a quarrel' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an argument, dispute, or disagreement between two or more people. For example: The couple had a quarrel over who should do the dishes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We had a quarrel.

The New York Times

A quarrel ensues.

The New York Times - Arts

"They had a quarrel.

The Guardian - Books

Later, a quarrel erupted.

The New York Times - Arts

Their celebration ended in a quarrel.

The New Yorker

"So, I started a quarrel," he recalled.

The New York Times

Angelique has a quarrel with Barnabas.

The New Yorker

And afterwards there'd be a quarrel.

The New Yorker

A quarrel in the family.

The Guardian

A quarrel ensued, and Payne murdered Comstock.

The New York Times - Books

It is a quarrel complicated by economic issues.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and choose a synonym if "a quarrel" doesn't quite capture the nuance of the disagreement. For example, use "a dispute" for a more formal setting or "a squabble" for a minor disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "a quarrel" in highly formal or professional writing where a more neutral term like "a disagreement" or "a dispute" would be more appropriate. The term "a quarrel" can sometimes sound overly dramatic or emotional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quarrel" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It denotes a specific instance of disagreement or argument. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a quarrel" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe an argument or disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for general usage but might be replaced by more formal terms like "dispute" in specific contexts. Ludwig's examples show its prevalence in news reporting, encyclopedic entries, and general narratives. While versatile, it's essential to consider the tone and formality of your writing to ensure that "a quarrel" fits the overall context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dispute

This term is a more general and neutral term for a disagreement or argument.

an argument

This term suggests a more heated disagreement than "a quarrel".

a disagreement

This term is a milder and more formal way to describe a lack of consensus.

a conflict

This term implies a more serious and prolonged disagreement, often involving opposing interests.

a squabble

This term refers to a petty or trivial argument.

a falling out

This phrase suggests a breakdown in a relationship due to a disagreement.

a feud

This term describes a long-standing and bitter quarrel, often between families or groups.

a tiff

This phrase is an informal term for a slight quarrel or disagreement.

a clash

This term implies a direct and forceful confrontation or disagreement.

a controversy

This term refers to a public disagreement or debate, often involving complex issues.

FAQs

How can I use "a quarrel" in a sentence?

You can use "a quarrel" to describe a disagreement or argument between people. For example: "The couple had "a quarrel" over money", or "The nations engaged in "a quarrel" over territory".

What's a more formal alternative to "a quarrel"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "a dispute", "a disagreement", or "a conflict". These options are less emotionally charged and more suitable for professional or academic writing.

What is the difference between "a quarrel" and "a squabble"?

"A quarrel" generally implies a more significant disagreement, while "a squabble" refers to a petty or trivial argument. The intensity and importance of the disagreement are the main differentiating factors.

Is it correct to say "have a quarrel" or "get into a quarrel"?

Both "have "a quarrel"" and "get into "a quarrel"" are grammatically correct and commonly used. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Have a quarrel" simply states that an argument occurred, while "get into a quarrel" suggests the process of becoming involved in an argument.