What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
altercation
Example
The altercation between the two coworkers was over a misunderstanding. [altercation: noun]
Example
They were involved in a heated altercation about politics. [altercation: adjective]
fight
Example
The two boxers had a fierce fight in the ring. [fight: noun]
Example
He fought off the attacker with all his might. [fought: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fight is more commonly used than altercation in everyday language. Fight is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while altercation is less common and refers to a specific type of conflict.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between altercation and fight?
Both altercation and fight are associated with an informal tone, but fight can also be used in formal contexts when referring to legal or professional situations involving physical violence.
