to quarrel

USAGE SUMMARY

"to quarrel" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two people arguing or having a heated disagreement. For example: "The couple had been quarreling late into the night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He and Margerie began to quarrel.

The New Yorker

-and ----have chosen to quarrel.

Cornell University

It's hard to quarrel with those selections.

The New York Times - Sports

It is hard to quarrel with that.

The Guardian - Opinion

Not much to quarrel with there.

The Guardian - Opinion

Oh, there was stuff to quarrel with.

The Guardian - Opinion

I'm not going to quarrel with it.

The New York Times

"We surely don't want to quarrel," said the prime minister.

The Economist

He becomes angry, and they begin to quarrel.

The New Yorker

Already losing popularity, they can hardly afford to quarrel.

The Economist

GONZALES: Senator, I don't want to quarrel with you.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to quarrel" when you want to emphasize a heated disagreement or dispute between two or more parties. It suggests a more intense level of conflict than simply disagreeing.

Common error

Avoid using "to quarrel" when a milder term like "to discuss" or "to debate" is more appropriate. "To quarrel" implies a significant level of animosity or tension that may not always be present in a simple difference of opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to quarrel" primarily functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It describes the action of engaging in a heated argument or disagreement. Ludwig shows frequent usage in describing conflicts and disputes across various sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to quarrel" is a versatile infinitive verb phrase used to describe engaging in a heated argument or dispute. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Encyclopedias. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it's important to ensure the level of intensity it conveys is appropriate for the specific situation. Consider alternatives like "to argue" or "to disagree" when a milder expression is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to argue

Focuses on presenting differing viewpoints, often less intense than "to quarrel".

to dispute

Implies a formal disagreement or debate over a specific point.

to squabble

Suggests a petty and often childish argument.

to bicker

Describes a series of small, irritating disagreements.

to wrangle

Indicates a prolonged and complicated argument, often involving negotiation.

to clash

Refers to a direct opposition of ideas or interests.

to contend

Implies a strong assertion of a point of view, often in competition with others.

to have a disagreement

A more formal and neutral way of describing a difference of opinion.

to lock horns

An idiomatic expression suggesting a direct and forceful confrontation.

to be at odds

Indicates a state of disagreement or conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "to quarrel" in a sentence?

You can use "to quarrel" to describe a heated argument or disagreement. For example: "They began "to quarrel" over the division of the inheritance."

What are some alternatives to "to quarrel"?

Alternatives include "to argue", "to dispute", "to squabble", and "to bicker", each with slightly different connotations.

What is the difference between "to quarrel" and "to argue"?

"To quarrel" suggests a more heated and emotional disagreement than "to argue". While arguing can be a rational discussion, quarreling often involves anger and resentment.

Is it formal or informal to use "to quarrel"?

"To quarrel" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in writing or when describing a serious disagreement. In casual conversation, "to argue" or "to disagree" might be more appropriate.