David Novak

The theological contacts between Jews and Christians during much of the premodern period are best characterized as disputations. Even when not engaged in face-to-face argumentation, Jews and Christians spoke about each other in essentially disputational terms.

American Theologian

Peter Abelard

I preferred the weapons of dialectic to all the other teachings of philosophy, and armed with these, I chose the conflicts of disputation rather than the trophies of war.

French Philosopher

George Eliot

Perhaps the most delightful friendships are those in which there is much agreement, much disputation, and yet more personal liking.

British Author

Implies a strong emotional undercurrent and sometimes a negative tone.

Emotional Intensity

Often suggests the possibility of escalating into a more serious disagreement or conflict.

Potential Conflict

Though intense, it can refer to structured debates in formal settings, like parliaments.

Formal Occasions

Primarily used within an educational or scholarly environment.

Academic Context

Focused on logical reasoning and evidence, not just expressing opinions.

Structured Argument

Involves a formal exchange of views, often with specific rules or procedures.

Disputation