dispute about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dispute about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a disagreement about something, particularly with someone else. For example, "The couple had a long dispute about who would take care of the dishes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"There's no dispute about it".

The Economist

Church members dispute about land.

Cornell University

There was little dispute about the means.

The Guardian

What is the dispute about?

The Guardian - Sport

There is no dispute about general principles.

Cornell University

And they dispute about all things?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There is little dispute about that.

The New York Times

So what is the dispute about?

The Guardian - Sport

Got a dispute about your restaurant bill?

The Guardian - Opinion

There is no dispute about what happened.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is no serious dispute about that in his party.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dispute about", ensure the subject of the dispute is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "There's a dispute about it", specify "There's a dispute about the project's budget".

Common error

Avoid using "dispute about" in highly formal or legal writing where more precise terminology like "litigation concerning" or "controversy surrounding" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dispute about" functions as a prepositional phrase, often following a noun or verb to specify the subject of a disagreement or contention. As Ludwig shows, it connects the idea of a dispute to the topic being disputed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

26%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dispute about" is a grammatically sound and very common prepositional phrase used to indicate the subject of a disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct for use in written English across various contexts. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its frequent use in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Science". While versatile, writers should ensure clarity by specifying the dispute's subject and consider more formal alternatives like "controversy surrounding" in legal or official contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disagreement on

Highlights a lack of consensus on a specific point.

debate over

Focuses on a structured discussion with opposing viewpoints.

differing opinions on

Highlights distinct, contrasting thoughts.

argument regarding

Emphasizes a formal discussion or debate concerning a particular subject.

conflict regarding

Indicates a clash of interests or ideas related to something.

controversy surrounding

Highlights public disagreement and debate, often with broader implications.

contention over

Focuses on the act of arguing or competing for something.

quarrel concerning

Suggests a more personal and heated disagreement.

variance regarding

Emphasizes the discrepancies or differences of opinion

issue concerning

Draws attention to a problem or point of debate.

FAQs

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

You can use "dispute about" to indicate a disagreement or argument regarding a specific topic. For example, "There is a dispute about the new company policy."

What are some alternatives to "dispute about"?

Alternatives include "argument regarding", "controversy surrounding", or "debate over", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "dispute about" or "dispute over"?

Both "dispute about" and "dispute over" are correct and often interchangeable, though "dispute over" might subtly imply a more direct confrontation or stake in the matter. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "dispute about" and "argument about"?

While both indicate disagreement, "dispute about" often refers to a more formal or sustained disagreement, while "argument about" can suggest a more immediate or heated exchange.