What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contest
Example
The spelling bee was a contest between the top students from each school. [contest: noun]
Example
I contest the validity of this contract. [contest: verb]
Example
The company is in a contest with its competitors to gain market share. [contest: noun]
dispute
Example
The neighbors had a dispute over the property line. [dispute: noun]
Example
The company is disputing the charges on their bill. [dispute: verb]
Example
There is a dispute over the authenticity of the painting. [dispute: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dispute is more commonly used than contest in everyday language. Dispute is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contest is less common and refers to a specific type of competition or struggle.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between contest and dispute?
Both contest and dispute can be used in formal and informal contexts, but dispute is more commonly used in legal or professional settings, while contest is more commonly used in sports or entertainment contexts.
