What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
altercating
Example
The two politicians were altercating during the debate. [altercating: verb]
Example
The neighbors were altercating loudly over the property line. [altercating: gerund or present participle]
bickering
Example
The siblings were bickering over who got to sit in the front seat. [bickering: verb]
Example
The couple's constant bickering was starting to wear on their friends. [bickering: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bickering is more commonly used than altercating in everyday language. Bickering is a common experience in many relationships, while altercating is less common and often associated with more serious conflicts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between altercating and bickering?
Both altercating and bickering are informal words and are not typically used in formal or professional contexts.
