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Quarrel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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quarrel

[ˈkwɒrəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

family

A heated argument or disagreement between two or more people, often resulting in anger or resentment.

Synonyms

argument, dispute, fight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
quarrel

Used to describe a minor or petty disagreement, typically between friends or family, and often verbal.

  • They had a quarrel over what movie to watch
  • Siblings often have quarrels but they usually make up quickly
argument

Used to refer to a more structured disagreement that involves presenting differing opinions or viewpoints, can be relatively calm but may become heated.

  • The argument over politics lasted for hours
  • They had an argument about who should take out the trash
dispute

Often used in more formal settings or concerning serious issues, such as legal, business, or contractual disagreements.

  • The boundary dispute between the two countries has yet to be resolved
  • The workers are in a dispute with the management over wages
fight

Describes a more intense and often physical conflict. It can also refer to a severe verbal altercation and carries a stronger negative connotation.

  • The two boys got into a fight after school
  • They had a big fight about finances and haven't spoken since

Examples of usage

  • The quarrel between the siblings escalated quickly.
  • Their quarrel over the inheritance lasted for years.
Context #2 | Verb

friends

To have an angry argument or disagreement with someone.

Synonyms

argue, bicker, disagree.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
quarrel

A heated argument or dispute, typically among friends or family. It often contains emotional outbursts.

  • They had a quarrel about where to spend the holidays
  • It wasn't just a disagreement, it turned into a full-blown quarrel
argue

A reasoned debate or exchange of opposing views. It can be calm or heated but is not necessarily hostile.

  • They often argue about politics but never take it personally
  • She argued her point well during the discussion
disagree

A simple expression of opposing views without much emotional intensity. It’s often used in formal or polite conversations.

  • I disagree with your opinion on the matter, but I respect it
  • They agreed to disagree and moved on with the discussion
bicker

Petty, trivial arguing, often about unimportant matters. It usually has a childish or annoying tone.

  • The siblings couldn't stop bickering over who gets to sit in the front seat
  • They bickered about the smallest things, like who left the door open

Examples of usage

  • They quarreled over who should pay the bill.
  • The couple quarreled about where to go on vacation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Arguing often stems from misunderstandings, where people misinterpret each other's intentions or words.
  • Research shows that resolving conflicts is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships and emotional well-being.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, quarrels are frequently used to propel the plot forward and reveal character flaws.
  • Quarrels in classic literature often represent deeper societal issues, highlighting themes of misunderstanding and discord among different groups.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows often thrive on quarrels between characters, as drama keeps audiences engaged.
  • Popular songs sometimes revolve around quarrels in relationships, emphasizing themes of love, betrayal, and reconciliation.

Sociology

  • Quarrels are common in group dynamics and can signal deeper ideological divides within communities.
  • Studies demonstrate that the frequency and handling of quarrels can significantly affect social cohesion and group outcomes.

Origin of 'quarrel'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'quarrel' comes from the Latin 'quarrelare', which means 'to complain' or 'to dispute'.
  • In Middle English, it appeared as 'quarrel', referring to a dispute or a complaint often linked to a physical fight.

The word 'quarrel' originated from the Old French word 'querele' which meant 'a complaint' or 'quarrel'. It entered the English language in the 14th century. Over time, the meaning shifted to refer to a verbal dispute or disagreement. The word has been used in various forms of literature and remains a common term to describe conflicts or arguments.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,290 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.