Argument Vocabulary

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argument

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A logical series of reasons, statements, or facts intended to support or establish a point of view. Ex. The committee presented a strong argument against building a new shopping mall.

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claim

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The main argument. Ex. My daughter's claim was that she should have a pet dog.

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reason

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Tells why the claim is made and is supported by evidence. Ex. Her reasons were that she would benefit from the companionship of a dog and learn responsibility in taking care of a living creature.

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counterclaim

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The opposing argument. Ex. My counterclaim was that a dog would cost too much money.

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persuade

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To cause (someone) to do something through reasoning or argument. Ex. She persuaded her parents to buy her a cellphone.

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evidence

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Facts that show that the claim is right. Facts help explain and prove your claim. Types of facts may include: specific examples, statistics, data, expert opinions, maps, charts, and graphs, etc. Ex. The evidence contained in the report from the American Kennel Association shows that dogs are good companions.

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opinion

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An idea or judgement about something, and not based upon facts. Ex. Spain is an amazing country to visit.

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fact

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A piece of information that is objective; information that can be confirmed as being accurate. Ex. Spain is a country in Europe.

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refute

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To disprove; to prove to be in error. Ex. She refuted her mother's counterclaim by offering her own birthday money to pay for the dog.

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rebuttal

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The act of disproving or overthrowing by contrary evidence.