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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
dispute
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The word "dispute" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a disagreement or argument, usually over a particular point or issue. For example: "The two sides are in dispute over who should pay the legal costs."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Until the Electoral Act became law, the house of parliament where the electoral dispute arose was responsible for determining the outcome of a disputed election.
News & Media
Ministers may want to sweep these events under the carpet, but the scars of the dispute and the subsequent closure programme remain on the memories, communities and landscapes of all coalfield communities.
News & Media
I can tell you what recorded history says, I can tell you what the Bible says, but I think that's a dispute amongst theologians and I think it has nothing to do with the gross domestic product or economic growth of the United States.
News & Media
A pricing dispute prompted the country to reorient its exports towards China, aided by the opening of a pipeline connecting the two countries in 2009.
News & Media
It is understood that Ed Miliband regrets the suggestion was made and does not want the policy dispute between him and the former business secretary to include such allegations.
News & Media
The UVF in east Belfast has been behind much of the street riots connected to the union flag dispute at Belfast city hall.
News & Media
The Abbott government has raised the ire of Beijing with statements interpreted as supportive of Japan in the dispute, but Carr said the Abbot government had, in fact, been "impeccable neutral" in its approach to the dispute.
News & Media
Hollywood also found it easier to tackle these issues through the prism of the musical, as in 1957's The Pajama Game, where Doris Day and her factory superintendent resolve their industrial dispute by falling in love.
News & Media
Earlier this year, Xydakis roundly condemned the British Museum's decision rejecting a Unesco offer to help resolve the dispute more than 200 years after the sculptures were controversially removed from Athens' greatest temple, the Parthenon, by the seventh Earl of Elgin during his tenure as ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.
News & Media
A detailed affidavit, written by Andrew McAleer, alleged Rice engaged in a "pattern of intimidation and violence" between 2012 and 2013 against the McAleers following a custody dispute between Karyn McAleer and Rice, who have a young child together from their previous relationship.
News & Media
No one can dispute this, as those parties will claim seven out of the eight regional seats.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "dispute", be specific about the subject of disagreement to provide clarity and context for your audience.
Common error
While "dispute" is versatile, avoid overuse in highly formal settings. Alternatives like "controversy" or "difference of opinion" might be more appropriate to maintain a professional tone.
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
4.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The word "dispute" functions primarily as a noun referring to an argument or disagreement or as a verb meaning to question or challenge. Ludwig highlights its use in various contexts, showcasing its flexibility. The Ludwig AI states it can refer to an argument or disagreement, usually over a particular point or issue.
Frequent in
News & Media
100%
Less common in
Science
0%
Formal & Business
0%
News & Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "dispute" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used to express disagreement or contention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively describes arguments or disagreements, especially over specific issues. Its usage is very common, particularly within the News & Media. While its register is generally neutral, it's essential to consider context and choose appropriate synonyms, such as "argument", "controversy" or "difference of opinion", depending on the desired level of formality and precision. Overall, "dispute" is grammatically correct and widely used, making it a reliable choice for expressing disagreement in various contexts.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Disagreement
A general term for a lack of consensus or harmony in opinion.
Difference of opinion
A polite way to describe a disagreement without implying negativity or conflict.
Argument
Refers to a disagreement or debate, often implying a stronger level of contention than "dispute".
Contention
Highlights the act of arguing or asserting a point of view, often in opposition to others.
Controversy
Implies widespread public disagreement or debate surrounding a particular issue.
Debate
A formal discussion on a particular topic, often with differing viewpoints presented.
Quarrel
Suggests a more personal or emotional disagreement, often between individuals.
Altercation
Suggests a noisy and heated argument or confrontation.
Conflict
Indicates a serious disagreement or struggle, potentially involving physical or violent confrontation.
Verbal clash
Emphasizes the use of spoken words in an aggressive or confrontational manner.
FAQs
How can I use "dispute" in a sentence?
You can use "dispute" as a noun to refer to an argument or disagreement, such as "The border dispute has lasted for years." As a verb, it means to argue against something, like "They dispute the election results."
What's the difference between "dispute" and "argument"?
"Dispute" often implies a more formal or legal context than "argument", which can refer to a more general disagreement.
What are some synonyms for "dispute"?
Synonyms for "dispute" include "argument", "controversy", "quarrel", and "conflict", each carrying slightly different connotations.
When is it appropriate to use the word "dispute"?
Use "dispute" when referring to a disagreement that involves differing opinions, claims, or contentions. It is suitable for formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific meaning intended.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
4.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested