bitter quarrel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitter quarrel" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a conflict or disagreement that is intense and filled with resentment or hostility. Example: "The two friends had a bitter quarrel over a misunderstanding that left their relationship strained."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

A month later, it is the focus of a bitter quarrel about the place of Islam in our society.

The New Yorker

This brief connection ended in a second bitter quarrel, and thereafter Du Bois moved steadily leftward politically.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At this point, a bitter quarrel broke out among the knights, and a few defected, with their men.

The New Yorker

Or a dramatic effect, as when the seemingly kind and charming hostess initiates a bitter quarrel with her husband as soon as the guests are gone.

The New York Times

He is said to be unhappy at the way his pal allowed himself to be taken over by the bitter quarrel with the BBC.

The Economist

After her father-in-law became King George I in 1714, she helped ease the difficult situation created by the bitter quarrel between the king and her husband.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Border swaps can happen but mostly after bitter quarrels.

Independent

But such honors have periodically provoked bitter quarrels.

The New York Times

It was a time of sumptuous feasts and also of diplomatic intrigues and bitter quarrels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Theirs is a world riven by bitter quarrels, scandal-mongering, jealous slander, and vindictive scheming".

The New Yorker

How ballads are composed and set afloat in tradition has been the subject of bitter quarrels among scholars.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bitter quarrel" to describe disagreements marked by strong emotions, resentment, and a history of conflict. It's effective for conveying the depth and intensity of the dispute.

Common error

Avoid using "bitter quarrel" in casual conversations or light-hearted situations. The phrase carries significant weight and is more appropriate for formal writing or serious discussions. Opt for alternatives like "argument" or "disagreement" in less intense settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitter quarrel" functions as a noun phrase, where "bitter" modifies the noun "quarrel". It describes a specific type of disagreement characterized by strong negative emotions. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

21%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bitter quarrel" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a deeply emotional disagreement, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently found in news and encyclopedia sources, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intensity and negativity of the conflict being described and consider related terms such as "acrimonious dispute" or "heated argument" for slightly different nuances. Avoid overuse in casual contexts to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bitter dispute

Focuses on the bitterness associated with the disagreement.

acrimonious dispute

Emphasizes the sharpness and bitterness of the disagreement.

acrimonious debate

Focuses on the caustic and hostile nature of the discussion.

heated argument

Highlights the intensity and emotional nature of the disagreement.

intense conflict

Emphasizes the high degree of engagement and potential for escalation.

fierce disagreement

Stresses the intensity and uncompromising nature of the difference in opinion.

rancorous conflict

Focuses on the deep-seated bitterness and resentment involved.

contentious debate

Highlights the argumentativeness and likelihood of dispute.

serious disagreement

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the disagreement.

sharp division

Highlights the clear and often hostile separation between parties.

FAQs

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

You can use "bitter quarrel" to describe a contentious disagreement. For example: "The "bitter quarrel" between the two families lasted for generations."

What phrases are similar to "bitter quarrel"?

Similar phrases include "acrimonious dispute", "heated argument", or "fierce disagreement", all of which suggest a strong and often hostile disagreement.

Is "bitter quarrel" a formal or informal expression?

"Bitter quarrel" is generally considered a more formal expression, suitable for serious or written contexts rather than casual conversation.

What makes a quarrel "bitter"?

A "bitter" quarrel is characterized by strong negative emotions like resentment, hostility, and a history of conflict, making it more intense and difficult to resolve than a simple disagreement.