# arbitration

/ˌɑɹbɪˈtɹeɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌɑːbɪtɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arbitration
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. dispute resolution

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

the process of solving a disagreement by using an independent person to make a final decision.

For teachers: the formal process of resolving a dispute outside of the court system by referring it to a neutral third party whose decision is legally binding.

- The two companies decided to go to arbitration instead of fighting in court for years.
- The contract includes a mandatory arbitration clause, requiring all employment disputes to be settled by a neutral panel rather than through public litigation.

Usage: Often used with the verbs 'seek', 'enter into', or 'submit to'.

### 2. the act of judging

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the act of acting as a judge or referee to settle an argument.

For teachers: the exercise of power by an appointed arbiter to determine the outcome of a conflict.

- His arbitration of the family dispute helped everyone reach a fair agreement.
- The diplomat's skillful arbitration prevented the border disagreement from escalating into a full military conflict.

Usage: Uncountable in this sense.

## Examples

- The two companies chose arbitration to settle their contract dispute.
- The union and the management team agreed to enter binding arbitration after weeks of failed negotiations.
- International trade agreements often include clauses that mandate arbitration in a neutral country to ensure that neither party faces a biased domestic court system.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.