dispute

Universal Words noun, verb noun about sth( an argument or a disagreement between two people, groups or countries; discussion about a subject where there is disagreement: a dispute between the two countries about the border * the latest dispute over fishing rights * industrial / pay disputes * The union is in dispute with management over working hours. * The cause of the accident was still in dispute )= being argued about(. * The matter was settled beyond dispute by the court judgment )= it could no longer be argued about(. * His theories are open to dispute )= can be disagreed with(. verb 1 to question whether sth is true and valid: [VN] These figures have been disputed. * to dispute a decision / claim * The family wanted to dispute the will. * [Vthat] No one is disputing that there is a problem. [also Vwh-] 2 to argue or disagree strongly with sb about sth, especially about who owns sth: [VN] The ownership of this land has been disputed for centuries. * disputed territory * The issue remains hotly disputed. [also V] 3 [VN] to fight to get control of sth or to win sth: On the last lap three runners were disputing the lead.