DISPUTE Synonyms: 159 Similar and Opposite Words

dispute 1 of 2

noun

di-ˈspyüt

Definition of dispute next

as in controversy

variance of opinion on a matter a dispute over the proper pronunciation of "nuclear"

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as in quarrel

an often noisy or angry expression of differing opinions after much dispute, the school committee decided that all backpacks would have to be stored in lockers during class hours

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dispute

2 of 2

verb

di-ˈspyüt

as in to question

to demand proof of the truth or rightness of a whole slew of relatives eager to dispute his claim to being the sole heir

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as in to bicker

to express different opinions about something often angrily hometown fans disputing with visiting fans over which had the better team

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as in to debate

to talk about (an issue) usually from various points of view and for the purpose of arriving at a decision or opinion in an extended session the city council disputed the need for a new high school

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of dispute

Noun

There weren’t as many glaring errors when the NFL also used replacement officials for one week of exhibition games and the opening week in 2001 before the labor dispute was resolved shortly after 9/11, and the regular officials returned in time when the season resumed following a one-week break. —

ABC News, 8 May 2026 Moshe Marvit, who was appointed by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the Senate in June 2022, served as a commissioner on the MSHRC, an independent body that provides trial and appellate review of disputes stemming from Mine Safety and Health Administration enforcement actions. —

Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 8 May 2026

Verb

But the move also deepens US exposure to DR Congo’s volatile internal politics, Tshisekedi himself came to power after a controversial election in 2019 where several observers disputed key electoral results. —

Yinka Adegoke, semafor.com, 8 May 2026 The church disputes those allegations and has denied any wrongdoing. —

James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for dispute

Recent Examples of Synonyms for dispute

Noun

Stress test the answer Ask about any controversies or conflicting findings around its advice.

— Sudheesha Perera, Time, 6 May 2026
Ted Turner, the media mogul and philanthropist behind the cable channels CNN, TBS, TNT, Turner Classic Movies, and the WCW who also courted controversy, died at his home near Tallahassee, Florida on Wednesday, according to The New York Times.

— Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 6 May 2026