What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spat
Example
The couple had a spat over what movie to watch. [spat: noun]
Example
They spat at each other for a few minutes before making up. [spat: verb]
dispute
Example
The company is in a dispute with its employees over wages. [dispute: noun]
Example
They disputed the results of the game for hours. [disputed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dispute is a more commonly used word than spat in formal and legal contexts. However, spat is more commonly used in everyday language to describe minor disagreements between individuals.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between spat and dispute?
Dispute is a more formal term than spat. It is often used in legal or business contexts, while spat is more informal and casual, and is commonly used in everyday language to describe minor disagreements between individuals.
