Definition

Adjective: 1. Given to or characterized by argument: Describes a person who frequently starts or engages in arguments, or a style of discourse that is contentious. 2. Involving or presenting logical arguments: Pertaining to the presentation of a reasoned case or series of statements intended to establish a point.

Usage

The word "argumentative" is used to describe a person's disposition or the nature of a discussion. It often carries a negative connotation when describing a person who is habitually quarrelsome. In a more formal or academic context, it can neutrally describe a text or speech that presents a structured argument.

Examples

• Describing a person's character:
  • He became very argumentative whenever someone disagreed with his political views.
  • The teacher noted that the student was intelligent but overly argumentative in class discussions.
• Describing a style of discourse:
  • The essay was highly argumentative, presenting a clear case for policy reform.
  • The debate shifted from a polite exchange to an argumentative shouting match.

Advanced Usage

• Legal and Academic Contexts: In these fields, "argumentative" can describe a line of questioning or a style of writing that seeks to persuade through reasoning, though it may also be criticized as being improperly aggressive.
  • The judge warned the lawyer against asking argumentative questions that badgered the witness.
  • Her thesis was praised for its original and well-supported argumentative structure.

Variants and Related Words

• Argue (verb): To give reasons for or against something; to exchange opposing views heatedly.
• Argument (noun): A reason or set of reasons given; a discussion involving differing points of view.
• Argumentation (noun): The action or process of reasoning systematically in support of an idea or theory.

Synonyms

• Contentious: Causing or likely to cause an argument; quarrelsome.
• Combative: Ready or eager to fight or argue.
• Disputatious: Fond of or inclined to dispute.
• Polemical: Relating to or involving strongly critical, controversial, or disputatious writing or speech.

Antonyms

• Agreeable: Pleasant and easy to get along with.
• Conciliatory: Intended or likely to placate or pacify.
• Compliant: Inclined to agree with others or obey rules.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To have an argumentative streak: To have a tendency to be quarrelsome.
  • He's generally easygoing, but he has an argumentative streak when it comes to sports.
• For the sake of being argumentative: Arguing without a serious purpose, often just to contradict.
  • Don't disagree just for the sake of being argumentative; listen to the proposal first.

Adjective

1. given to or characterized by argument
   • an argumentative discourse
   • argumentative to the point of being cantankerous
   • an intelligent but argumentative child