Disputing: meaning, definitions and examples

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disputing

[dɪˈspjuːtɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a disagreement

Engage in argument or discussion about (a subject) in which there is disagreement. Dispute the truth or validity of.

Synonyms

argue, contend, debate, quarrel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disputing	This is often used in formal or legal contexts where there is a disagreement over facts or details. It implies a serious discussion with evidence and logical reasoning. The two companies are disputing the terms of the contract. Scientists are disputing the results of the recent study.
argue	Used in everyday conversations, it implies a verbal disagreement where both sides present their points, sometimes passionately. They always argue about politics during family dinners. She argued with her friend about who should pay for lunch.
debate	Usually refers to a structured and formal discussion on a particular topic where different viewpoints are presented. Can be used in both professional and casual settings. The candidates will debate the key issues before the election. They had a lively debate about the benefits of a vegetarian diet.
quarrel	Implies a more emotional and possibly hostile disagreement. It is often used to describe conflicts among friends, family, or close acquaintances and usually has a negative connotation. The siblings had a quarrel over who should use the bathroom first. They quarreled about money and didn't speak for days.
contend	Typically used when someone is asserting a point strongly, often implying a degree of difficulty or resistance. It can be found in both formal and informal contexts. He contends that the new policy will harm small businesses. The boxer contends for the championship title.

Examples of usage

They were disputing the best way to resolve the issue.
He disputed her version of events.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal

A disagreement or argument. A debate or argument.

Synonyms

argument, conflict, controversy, disagreement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disputing	Used when people are actively challenging or questioning something, often in a formal or legal context. The two companies are disputing the terms of the contract The residents are disputing the new zoning laws in court
argument	Refers to a verbal exchange between people who have different opinions, often emotional and can be less formal. They had an argument over who should do the dishes I got into an argument with my friend about politics
conflict	Describes a serious disagreement or confrontation, often more serious and prolonged than an argument and can involve groups or nations. The conflict between the two countries has led to a war There is a conflict between the management and the employees over pay raises
disagreement	A general term for when people simply do not share the same views, often less intense than an argument or conflict. There was a disagreement about where to go for dinner They had a disagreement on the best approach to solve the problem
controversy	Applies to situations involving prolonged public disagreement or heated discussion, often about a topic of public interest. The policy has caused a lot of controversy on social media There is a controversy over the environmental impact of the new factory

Examples of usage

The couple had a dispute over the property.
The two parties were in a heated dispute over the contract terms.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'disputare', which means 'to investigate' or 'to dispute', highlighting its roots in discussion and examination.
In Old French, the term 'disputer' meant 'to contend' or 'to argue', showing its longstanding association with debate.
The usage of 'disputing' has appeared in English texts since the 15th century, reflecting its long history in discussions and arguments.

Philosophy

Philosophers often use the act of disputing to seek truth, where differing opinions can lead to deeper understanding.
Disputing is fundamental in dialectical reasoning, where the clash of ideas helps to formulate new concepts.
In many philosophical discussions, the process of disputing is seen as a method of refining beliefs and challenging assumptions.

Psychology

Engaging in disputes can highlight cognitive biases, as people often stick to their viewpoints even when presented with contrary evidence.
Healthy disputing can strengthen relationships by allowing individuals to express their thoughts openly and resolve conflicts.
Conflict resolution theories suggest that constructive disputing involves respect and understanding between parties, rather than hostility.

Literature

Disputing has been a key theme in many literary works, often exemplified in dialogues between characters representing conflicting ideologies.
Classic plays, such as those by Shakespeare, showcase disputing through witty repartees and dramatic conflicts that reveal deeper themes.
In poetry, the act of disputing can serve as a metaphor for the struggle between opposing forces, leading to a richer interpretation of the text.

Cultural Context

In many cultures, disputing is viewed differently; some embrace it as a vibrant part of conversation, while others see it as disrespectful.
Debates in public forums are a common way of disputing ideas, often used in politics, education, and media to explore various viewpoints.
Competitions like debate clubs structure disputing as a skill, teaching participants how to argue effectively and eloquently, regardless of the topic.

Translations

Translations of the word "disputing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 disputando

🇮🇳 विवाद कर रहे हैं

🇩🇪 streitend

🇮🇩 memperdebatkan

🇺🇦 сперечаючись

🇵🇱 kwestionując

🇯🇵 争っている (あらそっている)

🇫🇷 disputant

🇪🇸 discutiendo

🇹🇷 tartışmak

🇰🇷 논쟁하는 중

🇸🇦 مناقشة

🇨🇿 sporný

🇸🇰 sporný

🇨🇳 争论 (zhēnglùn)

🇸🇮 razpravljajoč

🇮🇸 deilandi

🇰🇿 дауласу

🇬🇪 დავის

🇦🇿 mübahisə edən

🇲🇽 discutiendo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,576, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18573 mindset
18574 treading
18575 matrimony
18576 disputing
18577 unbound
18578 catcher
18579 arbitrate
...