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Disputes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disputes

[dɪˈspjuːts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal

Disputes are disagreements or arguments between two or more parties over an issue.

Synonyms

conflict, controversy, disagreement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disputes

Use when talking about formal or legal arguments between parties that can be settled through negotiation or courts.

  • The two companies are involved in a legal dispute over the patent rights.
  • Labor disputes often lead to strikes.
conflict

Use when referring to a serious disagreement or struggle, especially one that affects many people or has significant impact.

  • The region has been plagued by armed conflict for years.
  • Personal conflicts in the office can affect everyone’s productivity.
controversy

Use when describing a public dispute or debate that involves strong disagreement, usually on a topic that evokes strong emotions.

  • The new policy sparked a huge controversy among the residents.
  • The film became the center of controversy due to its controversial subject matter.
disagreement

Use for general situations where two or more parties hold different opinions or views, but the situation is not necessarily severe.

  • They had a disagreement about which movie to watch.
  • There was a slight disagreement over the details of the project plan.

Examples of usage

  • The two countries are in a dispute over the border.
  • There is a legal dispute between the company and its former employee.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Disputes can also refer to debates or discussions about a topic where different opinions are presented.

Synonyms

argument, debate, discussion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disputes

This term is often used for serious disagreements or conflicts between people, groups, or organizations. It can be used both formally and informally, and usually implies a level of contention or hostility.

  • The neighbors have had ongoing disputes about the property line.
  • Trade disputes between countries can sometimes escalate into economic sanctions.
argument

This word is typically used to describe a verbal disagreement or fight between individuals. It can be both formal, as in a logical presentation, or informal, often with negative connotations when it involves raised voices and emotions.

  • They got into a big argument about politics during dinner.
  • His argument in the essay was well-structured and convincing.
debate

Debates are structured discussions where people present opposing points of view. These are usually formal and organized, often in settings like schools, parliaments, or televised events. The connotation is more neutral compared to 'argument' and 'disputes'.

  • The two candidates engaged in a lively debate on economic policies.
  • There will be a debate on environmental issues at the university tomorrow.
discussion

This term is used for conversations aimed at exploring a topic, sharing ideas, or resolving issues. Discussions are generally positive and constructive, emphasizing cooperation and mutual understanding.

  • We had a fruitful discussion about the new project plans.
  • The book club members had an in-depth discussion about the novel's themes.

Examples of usage

  • There was a heated dispute about the best way to solve the problem.
  • The scientists engaged in a dispute over the interpretation of the data.
Context #3 | Verb

legal

To dispute means to argue or disagree with something, especially an official decision.

Synonyms

challenge, contest, disagree with.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disputes

Used for formal arguments or disagreements, often in legal or business settings.

  • The two companies are involved in a legal dispute over the patent
challenge

Used when questioning or testing the validity or strength of something. It can be positive or neutral and often appears in motivational contexts.

  • He decided to challenge the traditional methods to find a better solution
contest

Used in situations where there is competition or a formal declaration of opposition, often seen in elections or games.

  • She decided to contest the results of the election
disagree with

Used in everyday conversations to indicate a difference in opinion or perspective. It is less formal and more common in personal or casual discussions.

  • I disagree with your opinion on this matter

Examples of usage

  • The company disputed the court's ruling.
  • He disputed the accuracy of the report.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'dispute' comes from the Latin word 'disputare,' which means 'to discuss' or 'to reason out.'
  • In medieval times, disputes were often settled through public debates or trials.
  • By the 15th century, written contracts became common to prevent disputes over agreements.

Law

  • In legal terms, a dispute often refers to a conflict that is taken to court for resolution.
  • Many disputes are resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), which includes mediation and arbitration instead of going to court.
  • Intellectual property disputes frequently arise when inventors or creators believe their work has been copied.

Psychology

  • Most disputes arise from misunderstandings, where each party believes they are right.
  • Emotional intelligence can greatly affect how disputes are handled; higher awareness often leads to better resolutions.
  • Conflict resolution skills are vital in relationships, helping individuals navigate and resolve disputes effectively.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous films and TV shows depict famous disputes, like 'The Social Network' which focused on the legal battles of Facebook’s creation.
  • Song lyrics often explore themes of disputes and arguments in relationships, reflecting real-life conflicts.
  • Debates, like the ones seen on talk shows, highlight various disputes among political figures or celebrities.

International Relations

  • Territorial disputes between countries often lead to significant international tensions and negotiations.
  • The United Nations works to mediate disputes between nations to maintain peace and security globally.
  • Disputes over resources, like water rights, can escalate into larger conflicts if not addressed cooperatively.

Origin of 'disputes'

The word 'dispute' originated from the Latin word 'disputare', which means 'to discuss or argue'. Over time, it evolved to encompass both legal disagreements and general debates. The concept of disputes has been present throughout history, from philosophical debates in ancient Greece to legal battles in modern courts.

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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,300, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.