Argument

/ˈɑrɡjʊmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A reason or set of reasons given in support of an idea, action, or theory.

She presented a strong argument for the need to invest in renewable energy.

An exchange of diverging or opposite views, typically a heated or angry one.

The couple had a loud argument about the best way to spend their vacation.

In mathematics and logic, a quantity or statement that is the subject of debate or reasoning.

The professor explained that the argument of a function is the value at which it is evaluated.

A brief verbal or written presentation that summarizes the essential points of a discussion or debate.

The essay concluded with a compelling argument that synthesized all the main points.

verb

To present reasons for or against a proposition, or to dispute a point.

The scholars argued about the implications of the new theory on traditional research.

Late Middle English: from Latin argumentum, from arguere ‘to make clear, prove’.

argue the toss

To dispute a decision that has been made.

fall out over something

To have an argument over a particular issue.

have a bone to pick

To have a reason to argue or complain about something.

disagreement

A difference of opinion or a dispute.

persuasion

The act of convincing someone to believe or do something.

debate

A formal discussion on a particular topic.

Beef

They have a beef about who should pay for dinner.

Fight

They got into a fight over which movie to watch.