Dispute, conflict, or both. Understanding the difference can help you to better address a challenging situation.
A dispute and a conflict can mean different things. Court cases are usually thought of as disputes, and there are many ways they are resolved other than through a trial and judgment. You can learn more about (alternative) dispute resolution options here:
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/dispute_resolution/resources/DisputeResolutionProcesses/
A challenge in an ongoing, valued relationship is more aptly called a conflict. Sometimes a dispute will bring to the surface a barely simmering or nearly boiling conflict – that now needs to be addressed.
