Quarrel

to continuously fight or argue over someone or something

Despite being siblings, Mary and Jack fight like cats and dogs over trivial matters.

to punish someone in a manner more violent or severe than they deserve

When the employee was caught stealing office supplies, the manager came down on him like a ton of bricks, leading to immediate termination.

a subject over which people disagree

The allocation of funds became the bone of contention during the budget meeting, leading to heated debates among department heads.

in serious disagreement with someone

The negotiation between the union and management was at loggerheads over issues of worker compensation.

used when two or more people, groups, or organizations fight or disagree with one another

The siblings were constantly at each other's throats, arguing over trivial matters.

(of two people, groups, countries, etc.) in a state of conflict or hostility toward each other

After the heated argument, the colleagues were at daggers drawn, refusing to speak to each other.

to completely defeat someone, leaving them feeling overwhelmed or powerless

In the highly competitive industry, new businesses often get chewed up and spit out if they can't adapt quickly.

to criticize or punish someone very harshly

Faced with repeated policy violations, the manager warned the employee that he would bring the hammer down if the behavior continued.

to engage in a verbal conflict by exchanging criticisms, insults, etc.

During the heated debate, the politicians traded punches over economic policies.

to say offensive, criticizing, or rude things to someone, particularly one's opponent, to make them less confident

Of course those boxers started talking trash—it's a normal part of the pre-match press conference.

used to indicate that a situation has reached a point where it is no longer tolerable or acceptable, and it is time for it to stop or change

The people have finally said "enough is enough" to the dictator's rule.

in a situation that is likely to cause a disagreement or fight

The two companies are on a collision course for a price war, with each one trying to undercut the other.

to cause trouble or upset by saying or doing something that brings conflict into a peaceful situation

The politician's controversial remarks put the cat among the pigeons in his party.

in a situation in which someone is very upset or angry with one for having or not having done something

I'm in the dog house with my wife because I forgot our anniversary.

to put down or humiliate a person who is too proud or self-righteous

Bill doesn't allow anything to get past him, and we are really looking forward to someone eventually and finally taking him down a notch or two.