# quarrel

/ˈkwɔɹəɫ/ (US) · /kwˈɒɹəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/quarrel
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

an angry argument or disagreement between people who usually get along. It is often about something small or personal.

For teachers: an angry dispute or altercation, typically between people on familiar terms. Often implies a verbal disagreement over personal matters rather than a formal or professional conflict.

## Examples

- The two brothers had a loud quarrel over the car keys.
- After a long and bitter quarrel about their shared finances, the couple decided to seek professional advice.
- What began as a minor quarrel over a forgotten appointment soon escalated into a fundamental reassessment of their long-term compatibility.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They had a quarrel for the money." but "They had a quarrel over the money." — When discussing the cause of the argument, 'over' or 'about' is used rather than 'for'.

## Usage notes

- Often takes the prepositions 'with' (the person) and 'about' or 'over' (the subject).

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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.