terrible row

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "terrible row" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a loud and angry argument or dispute between people. Example: "After a terrible row over finances, the couple decided to seek counseling to resolve their issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

There was a terrible row.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Around Thanksgiving in 1957, my father and I had a terrible row, our worst ever.

The New York Times

It's part of that pattern that there will always be a terrible row over patents".

The New York Times

Hoare abruptly stopped seeing her mother after Matthews had a terrible row with her.

The Guardian

Pro si go fys do roc de Do cat ym maino bocte De volt fact soc ma taimful gyroc!" ("There was an old man who said 'How / Can I possibly carry my cow? / For if I were to ask it /To get in my basket / It would make such a terrible row!' ") Later, he made up a private alphabet, and then another, to use in writing his diary.

The New Yorker

For instance, it does not follow logically that Tim and Harry are friends again from the premises that they had a terrible row which ended their friendship and that they have just been seen jogging together; it does not even follow, we may suppose, from all the information you have about Tim and Harry.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Really bad, terrible rows.

The Guardian - Film

"They always had terrible rows at Christmas.

The Guardian - Books

She didn't mean them, but we had terrible rows.

The Guardian

He recalls Sir Frederick Ashton, the influential founding choreographer of the Royal Ballet, having "terrible rows onstage".

The Guardian

But you know, there were terrible rows between Brook and Olivier.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "terrible row" to vividly depict a significant and unpleasant argument, emphasizing the severity and emotional impact of the disagreement.

Common error

While "terrible row" is acceptable, it can sound melodramatic in professional settings. Opt for more neutral terms like "serious disagreement" or "significant dispute" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrible row" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g. "had a terrible row"). As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe a significant and unpleasant argument.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

62.5%

Science

25%

Wiki

12.5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terrible row" is used to describe a serious and unpleasant argument. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for written English. While not excessively common, with 8 exact examples identified, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When aiming for a more professional tone, consider substituting it with phrases like "serious disagreement" or "significant dispute". Remember that "terrible row" functions as a noun phrase, typically the object of a verb. Its communicative purpose is to vividly describe the intensity and negativity associated with the conflict.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fierce argument

Emphasizes the intensity and passion involved in the dispute.

heated dispute

Highlights the high level of emotion and tension present.

bitter quarrel

Suggests a deep-seated animosity and resentment.

major conflict

Indicates a significant disagreement with potentially serious consequences.

violent disagreement

Focuses on the forceful and potentially aggressive nature of the clash.

serious altercation

Implies a confrontation that could involve physical or legal repercussions.

nasty spat

Downplays the seriousness somewhat, suggesting a brief but unpleasant argument.

acrimonious debate

Focuses on the bitterness and sharp words exchanged during the disagreement.

furious exchange

Emphasizes the anger and intensity of the conversation.

severe clash

Highlights the direct and forceful opposition between parties.

FAQs

What does "terrible row" mean?

A "terrible row" is a phrase used to describe a very serious and unpleasant argument or disagreement, often implying a high level of emotion and conflict.

What can I say instead of "terrible row"?

You can use alternatives like "fierce argument", "heated dispute", or "bitter quarrel" to convey a similar meaning depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "terrible row" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "terrible row" might sound too dramatic in formal writing. Consider using phrases like "serious disagreement" or "significant dispute" for a more professional tone.

How do I use "terrible row" in a sentence?

You can use "terrible row" to describe a specific instance of a severe argument, for example: "They had a terrible row about money" or "The political debate turned into a terrible row".