Altercate is a strong word, often used to describe a heated argument or dispute. If you're looking for some synonyms to use in its place, there are quite a few options. For example, you could use the word "argue," "debate," "quarrel," "dispute," or "bicker" to describe a tense situation. Alternatively, you might opt for a more formal word like "contend," "dispute," or "litigate" if you're talking about a legal dispute. No matter which synonym you choose, it's important to consider the context and tone of the situation you're describing to ensure that you're using the right word for the job.