spats

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While spats have flared up between the two countries in recent decades, fueled by historical animosity, this time it feels different, say analysts.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

"Now that China understands she will be around for a while it will be rethinking how to insulate economic relations from diplomatic spats."

From Barron's • Feb. 9, 2026

There are spats and hugs, frolics and bonding, and not much thrust to the tale.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2025

China plans to implement a steel export licensing mechanism next year, a move that could curb outflow of the metal that has been the subject of trade spats across the globe.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 12, 2025

One wore spats, and one had a handkerchief in his pocket same color as his tie.

From "Jazz" by Toni Morrison