cause dissension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause dissension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or statements that create disagreement or conflict among people. Example: "The new policy changes are likely to cause dissension among the staff, leading to a decrease in morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"I feared it had too much potential to cause dissension".

The New York Times

I told Muktar we didn't want to cause dissension in the mosque and would now leave.

The New York Times - Magazine

Daniel Pinkston, north-east Asia deputy project director for ICG, said Pak's execution was unlikely to be reported domestically but could possibly cause dissension with the party.

The Guardian

He allowed for Saladin's elder brother Turan-Shah to supervise Saladin in order to cause dissension within the Ayyubid family, undermining its position in Egypt.

Wikipedia

Obviously he did not want anyone who he felt would challenge his authority, cause dissension in the group or question his dogma.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It also caused dissension in Mr. McCain's own campaign.

The New York Times

This caused dissension in the coastal region, which depended heavily on export trade.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Widespread lay-offs from state-owned enterprises have already caused dissension there.

The Economist

Everyone, he said, had their own hopes, and did not want them damaged by possibly causing dissension.

The New York Times - Sports

She asks them to sympathise with her; they ask her to sympathise with them, and the insidious choice causes dissension and dismay.

The Guardian - Film

She asks them to sympathise with her; they ask her to sympathise with them, the insidious choice causes dissension and dismay.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "cause dissension", consider the specific context. Ensure that "dissension" accurately reflects the type and scale of disagreement or conflict you are describing. Alternatives like "stir up discord" might be more appropriate for active or intentional provocation.

Common error

Avoid using "cause dissension" when the situation involves minor disagreements or simple differences of opinion. "Dissension" implies a significant level of discord and conflict. For minor disagreements, phrases like "create minor disagreements" may be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause dissension" functions as a verb phrase, where "cause" is the verb and "dissension" is the noun acting as the direct object. It describes the act of initiating or creating disagreement and conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cause dissension" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, though not very common, to describe actions or events that generate significant conflict. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is often employed in news and media to discuss contentious issues within groups. For more informal or active instigation of disagreement, consider using alternatives like "stir up discord" or "foment discord". Conversely, to avoid overstating the level of conflict, using "create minor disagreements" is appropriate if only minor disagreements were caused.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create conflict

This alternative focuses on the creation of general conflict, which can include dissension.

stir up discord

This implies actively provoking disharmony and disagreement.

foment discord

This suggests actively encouraging or instigating disharmony.

incite disagreement

This emphasizes the act of prompting or urging disagreement.

trigger conflict

This highlights the role of initiating or setting off a conflict.

generate friction

This alternative suggests creating tension and strained relationships.

spark controversy

This focuses on initiating public debate or disagreement.

promote disharmony

This suggests contributing to a lack of harmony or agreement.

breed resentment

This highlights the cultivation of negative feelings and animosity.

instigate strife

This suggests initiating a bitter and sometimes violent conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "cause dissension" in a sentence?

You can use "cause dissension" to describe actions or events that lead to significant disagreement or conflict within a group. For example: "The new policy is likely to cause dissension among the employees."

What's a formal alternative to "cause dissension"?

A more formal alternative to "cause dissension" would be "foment discord" or "generate friction", which are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "cause dissension" and "cause disagreement"?

"Cause disagreement" is a more general term, while "cause dissension" implies a deeper, more disruptive level of conflict. "Dissension" suggests a strong division or contention, making it a more severe form of disagreement.

Is it correct to say "cause dissension among"?

Yes, it is correct to say "cause dissension among" when indicating the group or individuals experiencing the disagreement. For example: "The controversial decision caused dissension among the board members."