Quarrel with sb Meaning, Examples & How to Use

What Does “Quarrel with sb” Mean?

“Quarrel with sb” means to have an argument or disagreement with someone, often involving strong feelings or anger.

Introduction

The phrase “Quarrel with sb” is a common English phrasal verb used to describe situations where two or more people argue or disagree. Understanding the Quarrel with sb meaning helps learners recognize when someone is involved in a conflict. This expression is useful in daily conversations, especially when talking about relationships or disputes. Knowing how to use this phrasal verb correctly will make your English sound more natural and clear.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: Quarrel with somebody
• Type: Intransitive (requires a preposition)
• Level: B1 (Intermediate)
• Short meaning: To argue or disagree with someone

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Quarrel with sb” is an inseparable phrasal verb, meaning you cannot separate the verb and the preposition with an object.

Pattern: Quarrel + with + somebody

• Correct: She quarreled with her brother.
• Incorrect: She quarreled her brother with.

How to Use Quarrel with sb?

Use “quarrel with sb” when describing arguments or disagreements between people. It often refers to personal or emotional conflicts rather than formal disputes. The verb “quarrel” is usually followed by the preposition “with” and the person you argue with.

You can use it in different tenses:

• Present: I often quarrel with my friends.
• Past: They quarreled with their neighbors yesterday.
• Present perfect: She has quarreled with her colleague several times.

Examples

Here are some examples of “Quarrel with sb in a sentence” to help you understand how it is used naturally:

• Tom and Jerry often quarrel with each other about small things.
• She quarreled with her parents because they didn’t agree with her plans.
• They have quarreled with their landlord over the rent increase.
• It’s normal to quarrel with close friends sometimes.
• He never quarrels with his teammates during matches.

Common Mistakes

Many learners confuse the word order or forget the preposition “with.” Here are some common errors and corrections:

• Incorrect: She quarreled her sister.
  Correct: She quarreled with her sister.
• Incorrect: They quarrel about the issue.
  Correct: They quarrel with each other about the issue.

Differences / Synonyms

Other verbs similar to “quarrel with sb” include “argue with,” “fight with,” and “disagree with.” Here’s how they differ:

• Argue with: Can mean a verbal disagreement, sometimes less emotional than quarrel.
• Fight with: Can mean physical or verbal conflict, often stronger than quarrel.
• Disagree with: Means having a different opinion, usually calmer and less emotional.

“Quarrel with” usually implies a more emotional or personal disagreement than just “disagree.”

Common Collocations

When using “quarrel with sb,” some common words often appear with it. These collocations help make your language sound natural:

• Quarrel with family – argue with family members
• Quarrel with friends – disagreement between friends
• Quarrel with partner – argue with a boyfriend/girlfriend or spouse
• Quarrel with colleagues – disagreement at work
• Quarrel with neighbors – conflicts with people living nearby

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using “quarrel with sb” in a natural context:

Anna: Did you hear about Jack and Emma? They quarreled again last night.

Ben: Really? What was it about?

Anna: Something small, but they just can’t stop arguing.

Practice

Try to complete the sentences below using “quarrel with” correctly:

• Every time they _______ their parents, they feel upset.
• We shouldn’t _______ our friends over small mistakes.
• Last week, I _______ my colleague about the project deadline.
• It’s normal to _______ your siblings sometimes.

FAQ

• Q: Can “quarrel with sb” be used in formal writing?
  A: It is more common in informal or conversational English but can be used in formal writing if appropriate.
• Q: Is “quarrel with” separable?
  A: No, “quarrel with” is inseparable; the preposition “with” must always follow the verb.
• Q: What is the difference between “quarrel with” and “argue with”?
  A: “Quarrel with” often implies a more emotional disagreement, while “argue with” may be more neutral.
• Q: Can “quarrel with” refer to physical fights?
  A: Usually, it refers to verbal disagreements, not physical fights.
• Q: How do you pronounce “quarrel”?
  A: It is pronounced as /ˈkwɒr.əl/ (KWOR-uhl).