List of 426 Sets of Synonyms - How they Differ - Total of 2307 Words - 20

SYNONYMS: argument, dispute, controversy.
These nouns denote discussion involving conflicting points of view.

Argument stresses the advancement by each side of facts and reasons buttressing its contention and intended to persuade the other side: Emotions are seldom swayed by argument.
Dispute stresses division of opinion by its implication of contradictory points of view and often implies animosity: A dispute arose among union members.
Controversy is especially applicable to major differences of opinion involving large groups of people rather than individuals: The use of nuclear power is the subject of widespread controversy.