Bickering: meaning, definitions and examples

Small or petty arguments, often about trivial matters. It typically occurs among people who are close to each other, such as family members or friends.

• The siblings spent the afternoon bickering about who got to sit in the front seat of the car.
• Even the smallest decisions always turned into bickering between the couple.

A more intense argument or disagreement, often involving more emotion and potentially leading to a rift in relationships. It carries a more serious tone than bickering or squabbling.

• They had a bitter quarrel over how to spend the family savings.
• The neighbors got into a quarrel about the noise coming from the house.

Engaging in a verbal conflict or presenting reasons for or against something. It can be used in both casual and formal situations, and it may involve more significant issues compared to bickering.

• The two politicians argued about the best way to handle the economic crisis.
• Jane tends to argue with her colleagues whenever they propose a new idea.

Minor arguments or disputes, often among children or close acquaintances. Similar to bickering but typically even less significant.

• The children squabbled over who would get the last piece of cake.
• It's common for siblings to squabble over toys.

Use when referring to petty or trivial arguing, often over insignificant matters. It is usually friendly or playful, but can also be slightly annoying.

• Siblings often spend their time bickering over who gets to use the TV
• The couple were bickering about what to have for dinner

This word implies a louder, more heated disagreement, often between parties who are emotionally connected, like friends or family. It generally has a more negative tone.

• They have been quarreling about money for weeks
• The neighbors were quarreling late into the night

Describes a more serious or intense exchange of opposite views, often involving strong emotions and reasoning. Suitable for formal or informal discussions.

• They were arguing about the best way to solve the problem
• The debate team was arguing passionately about the topic

Typically used when referring to noisy, disruptive disagreement often over minor issues. Often used in a light-hearted or slightly humorous context.

• The kids were squabbling over the last piece of cake
• The colleagues were squabbling about who gets the best desk