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dispute

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /dɪˈspjuːt/

KK: /dɪˈspjuːt/

intransitive verb
Definition

To engage in a discussion or argument about something, often involving differing opinions.


Example

The two parties dispute over the terms of the contract.


Tense Forms

Past: disputed

Past Participle: disputed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear them dispute about the best pizza place last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it got pretty heated!
Sloth A
I thought it was funny how passionate they were during that dispute.
Sloth B
Totally! It's like they were defending their favorite place with their lives.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
argue
debate
quarrel
Antonyms
agree
concur
settle
noun
Definition

A disagreement or argument between people or groups, often involving conflicting opinions or claims.


Example

The two countries are in a dispute over the border.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the dispute over the parking spaces at school?
Sloth B
Yeah, it got pretty heated between the students.
Sloth A
I can't believe they let it escalate into such a big deal.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To argue or disagree about something, often questioning its truth or validity.


Example

They decided to dispute the terms of the contract in court.


Tense Forms

Past: disputed

Past Participle: disputed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the meeting where they disputed the new policy?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it got pretty heated.
Sloth A
I can't believe they would even dispute something that seems so beneficial.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Dispute → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "putare" (meaning to think or reckon). The word describes a disagreement or argument where thoughts are set apart from one another.

Memory Tip

Think of ideas being 'set apart' ('dis-') from each other in a disagreement — that's what a dispute means.

Visually Confused Words
redispute
disrepute
undisputed
predispute
disunite
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I know, right? It's just a parking spot!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
argument
debate
quarrel
Antonyms
agreement
harmony
concord
I know! Some people just love to argue for no reason.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
challenge
contest
question
Antonyms
accept
agree
endorse