# litigation

/ˌɫɪtəˈɡeɪʃən/ (US) · /lˌɪtɪɡˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/litigation
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

the process of taking a disagreement to a court of law so a judge can decide who is right. It is a formal way for people or companies to solve legal problems.

For teachers: the process of taking legal action through a court system to resolve a dispute. Often used to describe civil rather than criminal proceedings.

## Examples

- The company is currently involved in litigation over a patent.
- After months of failed negotiations, the two businesses decided that litigation was the only way to settle the contract dispute.
- The threat of protracted litigation often forces a settlement between parties who wish to avoid the escalating costs and public scrutiny of a full trial.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows verbs like 'commence', 'avoid', or 'threaten'; often functions as a modifier in phrases like 'litigation costs'.

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