Altercation Meaning in English

word

US

ˌɑɫtɝˈkeɪʃən

awl-ter-KAY-shun

UK

ˌɒltəkˈeɪʃən

ol-tuh-KAY-shun

Definition

An altercation is a heated or angry argument, usually between two or more people, and often in public.

Usage & Nuances

'Altercation' is formal and typically used in written English, news, or reports. It usually describes a brief but intense disagreement, not a physical fight. Common with 'verbal altercation.' Avoid using it for mild or friendly arguments.

• Spanish: altercado - discusión acalorada
• Portuguese (BR): altercação - discussão acalorada
• Portuguese (PT): altercação - discussão acesa
• Chinese (Simplified): 争执 - 争吵
• Chinese (Traditional): 爭執 - 爭吵
• Hindi: झगड़ा - विवाद
• Arabic: مشاجرة - جدال
• Bengali: বিবাদ - বাকবিতণ্ডা
• Russian: ссора - перепалка
• Japanese: 口論 - 争い
• Vietnamese: cuộc cãi vã - cuộc tranh cãi gay gắt
• Korean: 언쟁 - 말다툼
• Turkish: tartışma - ağız kavgası
• Urdu: جھگڑا - تکرار
• Indonesian: percekcokan - pertengkaran

Example Sentences

There was an altercation between two students in the hallway.

basic

The police broke up the altercation quickly.

basic

Their loud altercation drew everyone's attention.

basic

I heard you had an altercation with your neighbor last night.

natural

The manager tried to calm the altercation before it escalated.

natural

A minor parking issue turned into a full-blown altercation.

natural