Disputatious Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disputatious

[dɪˈspjuːtəʃəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

fond of or causing heated arguments

Synonyms

argumentative, contentious, quarrelsome.

Examples of usage

  • His disputatious nature often led to tension in the office meetings.
  • She was known for her disputatious attitude during class discussions.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

inclined to argue or debate

Synonyms

controversial, opinionated, polemical.

Examples of usage

  • The disputatious student always challenged the professor's opinions.
  • Being disputatious, he enjoyed engaging in intellectual discussions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Disputatious characters are often used in literature to drive conflict and plot, as they challenge others and create tension.
  • Classical works, such as those by Socrates, showcase disputatious individuals who engage in dialectic to explore philosophical ideas.
  • Many modern novels feature disputatious protagonists who embody the struggle between differing beliefs and perspectives.

Psychology

  • People labeled as disputatious may have a high need for cognitive closure, craving resolution through discussion.
  • Disputatious behavior can be linked to certain personality traits, such as openness to experience and extraversion.
  • Research suggests that engagement in argument can enhance critical thinking skills by forcing people to articulate and defend their ideas.

Social Context

  • In contemporary society, especially on social media, disputatious behavior can lead to polarized discussions and increased conflict.
  • Workplaces may benefit from some level of disputatiousness, as open debates can lead to better decision-making and innovation.
  • However, excessively disputatious environments can also result in hostility and stress among team members.

Origin of 'disputatious'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'disputare', meaning 'to investigate' or 'to discuss'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 16th century, reflecting a time when debate was popular among scholars.
  • The suffix '-ious' indicates a quality, turning the root into an adjective that describes someone full of the habit of debating.

The word 'disputatious' originated from the Latin word 'disputare', meaning 'to discuss or to argue'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The term has evolved to describe individuals or situations that are prone to engaging in arguments or debates.


See also: disputable, disputably, disputant, disputatiously, disputatiousness, dispute, disputed, disputes, disputing, indisputable, indisputably, undisputed.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,093, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.