substantive disagreement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantive disagreement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a disagreement that is significant or meaningful, often in discussions or debates. Example: "The committee reached a consensus on most issues, but there was a substantive disagreement regarding the budget allocation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

A substantive disagreement.

The New York Times

But he said that there was one substantive disagreement.

The New York Times

When you stack substantive disagreement atop a strategic incentive to disagree, you get Washington in 2012.

The New York Times

Two weeks later, his "take China down" reference is still ricocheting around Beijing, more a reflection of Chinese insecurities than of any substantive disagreement.

The New Yorker

Throughout the speech, Mr. Medvedev veered repeatedly toward staking out an independent position, but would pull back before making explicit any substantive disagreement with Mr. Putin.

The New York Times

4.25pm: Alex Salmond has said there was only really substantive disagreement on one or two issues after his meeting with David Cameron, the BBC is reporting.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Tactical disagreements are important, but they shouldn't be confused with substantive disagreements on policy.

The Washington Post

"I have not seen serious substantive disagreements," he said in an interview.

The New York Times

They are edited for length and to focus on substantive disagreements.

The Washington Post

Whether it's antiterrorism policy or regulatory policy, most substantive disagreements are within the 40 yard lines.

The New York Times

In this case we have substantive disagreements on the facts, and we believe the record shows the employee was treated fairly".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantive disagreement", be sure to follow it with a clear explanation of what the disagreement entails to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "substantive disagreement" when the difference is minor or purely semantic. Ensure that the disagreement has real implications and consequences to justify the term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantive disagreement" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a significant and meaningful difference in opinion, often in academic, professional, or political contexts. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

28%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantive disagreement" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a significant and meaningful difference of opinion, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its use is particularly prevalent in News & Media, Academia, and Science, indicating a neutral to formal register. While grammatically correct and versatile, it's important to ensure that the disagreement is indeed substantial to justify its use. Related phrases like "significant difference of opinion" and "major point of contention" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended emphasis. By avoiding overstatement and providing clear context, writers can effectively employ "substantive disagreement" to convey important distinctions in viewpoints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant difference of opinion

Emphasizes the contrast in opinions rather than the disagreement itself.

real difference of opinion

Emphasizes the authenticity and genuineness of the disagreement.

major point of contention

Highlights the issue causing the disagreement more strongly.

fundamental difference in views

Focuses on the underlying beliefs that lead to disagreement.

serious conflict of ideas

Presents disagreement as a direct clash of differing concepts.

key area of dispute

Pinpoints the central issue in a disagreement.

profound ideological split

Highlights the deep divide in beliefs at the root of the disagreement.

considerable divergence in thought

Focuses on the separation in thinking processes.

deep-seated ideological divide

Highlights the entrenched nature of differing ideologies.

material conflict

This term emphasizes the tangible aspect of the conflict, often implying legal or economic implications.

FAQs

How can I use "substantive disagreement" in a sentence?

You can use "substantive disagreement" to describe situations where there's a significant difference of opinion. For example, "There was a "substantive disagreement" between the parties regarding the terms of the contract."

What's a good alternative to "substantive disagreement"?

Depending on the context, you could use "significant difference of opinion", "major point of contention", or "fundamental difference in views" as alternatives to "substantive disagreement".

Is "substantive disagreement" a formal or informal phrase?

"Substantive disagreement" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, particularly in professional, academic, or news settings. It conveys a serious and meaningful difference of opinion.

What makes a disagreement "substantive"?

A disagreement is "substantive" when it involves essential points, core issues, or significant implications. It's not merely a superficial or trivial difference but concerns matters of real importance.