altercation

altercation, heated argument

noun al-tehr-kah-SYOHN Rare

Origin: Latin altercatio, from altercari (to dispute)

Usage Note

Altercation denotes a brief but sharp verbal dispute, often in public. It is more formal than dispute or accrochage and implies raised voices rather than physical fighting. Avoir une altercation avec quelqu'un means to get into a heated row with someone.

Examples

"Les deux voisins ont eu une altercation dans la rue."

Natural Translation

The two neighbors had an altercation in the street.

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