What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stoush
Example
The two boys got into a stoush after school. [stoush: noun]
Example
The protesters and the police had a bit of a stoush outside the courthouse. [stoush: noun]
altercation
Example
The couple had an altercation over who should do the dishes. [altercation: noun]
Example
The politician got into an altercation with a journalist during the press conference. [altercation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Altercation is more commonly used than stoush in everyday language. Altercation is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while stoush is less common and more specific to violent or informal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stoush and altercation?
While altercation can be used in both formal and informal contexts, stoush is typically associated with informal or colloquial language and may not be appropriate for formal settings.