Cool MateArguments vs Quarrel
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Arguments
Top 2,000 (common)
Quarrel
Top 3,000 (common)
Most common: Arguments
| Arguments | Quarrel | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ˈɑːɡjʊmənts//🇺🇸 //ˈɑrɡjəments// | 🇬🇧 //ˈkwɒr.əl//🇺🇸 //ˈkwɔːr.əl// |
| Meaning | A disagreement or fight between people. | A loud argument or fight. |
| Example | They had several heated arguments about the project. | They had a loud quarrel in the middle of the street. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 3,000 (common) |
| Collocations | make arguments, strong arguments, arguments against, arguments in favor, logical arguments | have a quarrel, squabble and quarrel, quarrel with someone |
| Antonyms | agreement, harmony | agreement, harmony, accord |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'arguments' with 'reasons' — arguments can contain reasons but are not the same., Using 'argument' in the plural incorrectly as in 'the arguments were strong.', Mistaking 'arguments' for 'arguments against' without context. | Confusing 'quarrel' with 'argument' when they have slightly different connotations., Using 'quarrel' only as a noun, forgetting it can also be a verb., Overusing in formal contexts where 'disagreement' or 'discussion' might fit better. |
| Usage notes | Use in contexts involving disagreement or debate. Avoid in overly formal settings where 'discussions' might be more appropriate. | Used to describe a disagreement that may become heated. More common in spoken English than in formal written contexts. |
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Frequently asked questions: Arguments vs Quarrel
What's the difference between Arguments and Quarrel?
Arguments: A disagreement or fight between people. Quarrel: A loud argument or fight.
Which is more common: Arguments and Quarrel?
Arguments is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Arguments: They had several heated arguments about the project. Quarrel: They had a loud quarrel in the middle of the street.
Can I use Arguments and Quarrel interchangeably?
Not always. Arguments and Quarrel are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.