désaccord

Désaccord is a French noun meaning a lack of agreement or harmony between people, groups, or institutions. It can refer to a difference of opinion, a dispute, or a misalignment in policy, plan, or interpretation. The expression être en désaccord indicates that a person or party is not in agreement with another.

Etymology: The term is derived from accord (agreement) with the prefix dés- indicating negation. It appears in Middle French as désaccord, and in modern French is widely used. The related adjective désaccordé means “out of tune” or “not in harmony” when describing music or sound, and by extension, situations or documents that are not harmonized.

Usage and nuance: Désaccords can occur in politics (désaccord entre partis), diplomacy, law, business strategy, and personal relations. It is generally neutral, though it can carry connotations of tension when expressed publicly or widened. Common expressions include être en désaccord avec quelqu’un and exprimer un désaccord sur une question.

Examples: Les deux parties sont en désaccord sur le calendrier du projet. Il existe aussi un désaccord entre les experts concernant l’interprétation des données.