ARGUE Synonyms: 183 Similar and Opposite Words

argue

verb

ˈär-(ˌ)gyü

as in to contend

to state (something) as a reason in support of or against something under consideration argued that a bake sale would make a lot less money than a car wash

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Relevance

as in to bicker

to express different opinions about something often angrily that couple argues so incessantly it's a miracle they're still together

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as in to convince

to cause (someone) to agree with a belief or course of action by using arguments or earnest requests argued my boss into letting me telecommute for four days a week

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as in to discuss

to talk about (an issue) usually from various points of view and for the purpose of arriving at a decision or opinion candidates arguing gun control in a nationally televised debate

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as in to confirm

to give evidence or testimony to the truth or factualness of the security video argues that it was a taller man who entered the building

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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb argue contrast with its synonyms?

The words debate and discuss are common synonyms of argue. While all three words mean "to discourse about in order to reach conclusions or to convince," argue implies the offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held.

argued that the project would be too costly

When is it sensible to use debate instead of argue?

While in some cases nearly identical to argue, debate suggests formal or public argument between opposing parties; it may also apply to deliberation with oneself.

debated the merits of the amendment

I'm debating whether I should go

When might discuss be a better fit than argue?

The synonyms discuss and argue are sometimes interchangeable, but discuss implies a sifting of possibilities especially by presenting considerations pro and con.

discussed the need for a new highway

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of argue Critics argued the ban is too draconian and that lawmakers have failed to consider the positive traits of social media. —

Filip Timotija, The Hill, 28 Nov. 2024 Saban argued against three-loss teams being rewarded by making it to the playoff. —

Chantz Martin, Fox News, 28 Nov. 2024 If the trial doesn’t start until April 21, Spiro argued Adams will be deprived of ample opportunity to campaign for his reelection. —

Chris Sommerfeldt, New York Daily News, 28 Nov. 2024 The political scientist Joseph Nye has argued that these American ideals are a core component of U.S. soft power. —

Daniel W. Drezner, Foreign Affairs, 12 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for argue

Recent Examples of Synonyms for argue

Verb

It is based in part, on grounds that charges in the indictment are unconstitutional since the charges are based on the exit tax regime which Ver contends is itself unconstitutional.

Virginia La Torre Jeker, J.D., Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024
These kinds of legal tools can be empowering for voters of color in all states, voting rights advocates contend.

Hansi Lo Wang, NPR, 6 Dec. 2024