Definition

1. Noun:
   • A reason or set of reasons given to persuade others that an action or idea is right or wrong: An "argument" is a logical series of statements intended to support a point of view.
   • A discussion or debate involving differing points of view: An "argument" can refer to an exchange of diverging or opposite views, often a heated one.
   • A summary of the subject or plot of a literary work: In literature, an "argument" is a brief synopsis.
   • (Mathematics, Logic) An independent variable or value upon which a function's result depends: In technical contexts, it is a variable or input value.
   • (Computer Science) A value passed to a function or subroutine: In programming, an "argument" is data provided to a function.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Reasoning):
  • She presented a compelling argument for recycling.
  • His main argument was based on economic data.
• Noun (Disagreement):
  • They had a loud argument about politics.
  • Let's avoid another pointless argument.
• Noun (Summary):
  • The book's preface includes an argument of the following chapters.
• Noun (Technical):
  • In the equation f(x), 'x' is the argument.
  • The function call requires two string arguments.

Advanced Usage

• "To win/lose an argument": To succeed or fail in persuading others in a debate.
  • He never admits when he loses an argument.
• "For the sake of argument": As a hypothetical assumption to explore an idea.
  • For the sake of argument, let's assume your plan works.
• "A line of argument": A connected series of reasons used.
  • Her line of argument was difficult to follow.

Variants and Related Words

• Argue (verb): To give reasons for or against something; to dispute.
  • They argue about money constantly.
• Argumentation (noun): The process of reasoning systematically.
  • The essay was a masterpiece of logical argumentation.
• Argumentative (adjective): Given to arguing; contentious.
  • He became very argumentative during the meeting.

Synonyms

• Reasoning: The action of thinking about something logically.
• Dispute: A disagreement or debate.
• Claim: An assertion of the truth of something.
• Debate: A formal discussion on a particular topic.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Argue against: To give reasons why something is bad or wrong.
  • Many experts argue against this policy.
• Argue for: To give reasons in support of something.
  • She argued for a more flexible approach.
• Argue out: To discuss something thoroughly until a conclusion is reached.
  • We need to argue this out before deciding.

Related Idioms

• A heated argument: A very intense or angry disagreement.
  • The discussion turned into a heated argument.
• Beyond argument: Undeniably true; not open to dispute.
  • His talent is beyond argument.
• To get into an argument: To become involved in a dispute.
  • I don't want to get into an argument with you.

Noun

1. a course of reasoning aimed at demonstrating a truth or falsehood; the methodical process of logical reasoning
   • I can't follow your line of reasoning
2. a variable in a logical or mathematical expression whose value determines the dependent variable; if f(x)=y, x is the independent variable
3. (computer science) a reference or value that is passed to a function, procedure, subroutine, command, or program
4. a summary of the subject or plot of a literary work or play or movie
   • the editor added the argument to the poem
5. a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal
   • the argument over foreign aid goes on and on
6. a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement
   • they were involved in a violent argument
7. a fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true
   • it was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true