Inklingo

How to Say "dispute" in Spanish

English → Spanish

discusión

nounA2general
Use this word for a disagreement or argument between people, often about personal matters or everyday topics.

Examples

Tuvieron una discusión fuerte sobre quién lavaría los platos.

They had a strong argument about who would wash the dishes.

conflicto

kohn-FLEEK-toh/konˈflikto/

nounA2general
Choose this word for a more serious or prolonged disagreement, often involving organized groups, legal issues, or political tensions.
Two simplified figures standing on opposite sides of a wide crack in the ground, facing each other with frowning expressions, symbolizing conflict or opposition.

Examples

El conflicto duró varias semanas antes de que llegaran a un acuerdo.

The conflict lasted several weeks before they reached an agreement.

Hay un conflicto laboral entre la empresa y sus empleados.

There is a labor dispute between the company and its employees.

El país evitó un conflicto armado gracias a la diplomacia.

The country avoided an armed conflict thanks to diplomacy.

Gender Reminder

Remember that 'conflicto' is always a masculine noun, so you must use 'el conflicto' or 'un conflicto'.

Mixing up 'conflicto' and 'problema'

Mistake: “Using 'conflicto' when referring to a small, everyday glitch (like a computer problem).”

Correction: Use 'problema' for minor issues. 'Conflicto' usually implies strong opposition, confrontation, or a serious crisis.

discutir

dis-koo-TEER/dis.kuˈtiɾ/

verbB1general
Use this verb when you mean to challenge a statement, decision, or ruling, or to engage in a debate or argument about a specific point.
Two characters standing close together with angry expressions and crossed arms, illustrating a heated argument.

Examples

No me gusta discutir con mi jefe.

I don't like to argue with my boss.

Están discutiendo por quién tiene que lavar los platos.

They are arguing over who has to wash the dishes.

El jugador discutió la decisión del árbitro.

The player disputed the referee's decision.

The Preposition 'Con'

When 'discutir' means 'to argue,' you MUST use the word 'con' (with) before the person you are arguing with: 'Discutió con su hermano' (He argued with his brother).

The Preposition 'Por'

To explain the reason for the argument, use 'por': 'Discutimos por dinero' (We argued over money).

Noun vs. Verb Confusion

Learners often confuse the nouns 'discusión' (argument/disagreement) and 'conflicto' (conflict) with the verb 'discutir' (to argue/to challenge). Remember that 'discutir' is an action, while 'discusión' and 'conflicto' are the results or states of having an argument.

Related Translations

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