Meaning and Usage
The verb もめる is used to describe situations where people disagree, argue, or have disputes. It often implies a conflict that is somewhat serious or ongoing, such as legal disputes, family quarrels, or disagreements in meetings.
Common Contexts
もめる frequently appears in contexts involving conflicts over property, inheritance, opinions, or negotiations. It is often used in both formal and informal situations but tends to describe more serious or prolonged disputes rather than casual disagreements.
Collocations and Patterns
- もめる + で (e.g., 土地の境界でもめる): to have a dispute over something specific.
- 意見がもめる: opinions clash or conflict.
- 遺産でもめる: to quarrel over inheritance.
Nuances and Tips
When using もめる, the speaker usually implies that the disagreement is causing tension or difficulty. It is not used for light or friendly debates but rather for conflicts that may cause trouble or require resolution. Avoid confusing もめる with simple disagreement verbs like 反対する; もめる carries a stronger nuance of conflict or dispute.
Register
もめる is neutral and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese, including news reports and everyday conversation about disputes.