Definition
having or showing a tendency to argue or disagree often about petty things
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
adjective
Synonyms
combative, argumentative, contentious, disagreeable, bickering
Antonyms
cooperative, amicable, conciliatory, peaceable, harmonious
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | quarrelsomeness, quarrelsomenesses |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | quarrelsome |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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Jane was known for her quarrelsome nature, always ready to engage in heated debates and arguments over even the smallest of issues.
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The neighbor’s quarrelsome behavior made it difficult for anyone in the community to have peaceful interactions or maintain harmonious relationships.
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Despite the team’s talent and potential, their quarrelsome attitudes hindered their progress, resulting in a lack of cooperation and constant disagreements.
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The political debate turned into a quarrelsome affair, with each candidate attacking the other’s character instead of discussing substantial policy issues.
Usage
The word “quarrelsome” is derived from the combination of the root word “quarrel” and the suffix “-some.” The root word “quarrel” originates from the Old English word “cwerran,” which means “to complain” or “to argue.” The suffix “-some” is added to the root to form an adjective that means “inclined to” or “characterized by.” Thus, “quarrelsome” describes someone who is inclined to argue or engage in disputes.
The term “quarrelsome” is used to describe individuals who have a tendency to provoke or engage in conflicts, disputes, or arguments. It refers to people who are easily irritable, contentious, or combative in their interactions with others. They may have a habit of initiating or escalating disagreements, often without valid reasons.
The usage of “quarrelsome” emphasizes a person’s disposition to engage in quarrels or disputes rather than the frequency of their arguments. It suggests a temperament or personality trait that is prone to confrontations and conflicts.
Variations of “quarrelsome” include “quarrelsomeness” (noun form) and “quarrelsomely” (adverb form). These variations maintain the same meaning and can be used to convey the tendency to engage in arguments or disputes.
It is worth noting that being quarrelsome is generally seen as a negative trait, as it often leads to strained relationships, hostility, and unnecessary conflicts.