Mastering “Argue”: A Comprehensive Guide to Usage

Understanding how to use the word “argue” correctly is crucial for effective communication, whether in academic writing, professional discussions, or everyday conversations. “Argue” can express disagreement, present a case with evidence, or even indicate persuasion.

This article provides a detailed exploration of the various ways to use “argue,” covering its definitions, structural patterns, different usages, common mistakes, and practical exercises. Suitable for English language learners of all levels, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to use “argue” confidently and accurately.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Definition of “Argue”
• Structural Breakdown of “Argue”
• Types of “Argue”
  • Argue With
  • Argue For
  • Argue Against
  • Argue That
  • Argue Someone Into
  • Argue Someone Out Of
• Examples of “Argue” in Sentences
• Usage Rules for “Argue”
• Common Mistakes with “Argue”
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Conclusion

Definition of “Argue”

The word “argue” is a versatile verb with several related but distinct meanings. At its core, it involves presenting reasons or evidence to support a particular point of view.

It can also mean to disagree or quarrel with someone, often verbally. Understanding these nuances is key to using “argue” effectively.

“Argue” can be classified as a verb, and its function in a sentence is to describe an action. It can be transitive (taking a direct object) or intransitive (not taking a direct object), depending on the context. The contexts in which “argue” is used range from formal debates and legal proceedings to informal discussions and personal disagreements.

Here’s a breakdown of the primary definitions:

• To express a difference of opinion or disagree strongly: This often involves a heated discussion or debate.
• To give reasons for or against something: This involves presenting evidence and logical arguments to support a claim.
• To persuade someone of something by giving reasons: This involves convincing someone to accept your point of view.

Structural Breakdown of “Argue”

The basic structure involving “argue” is relatively straightforward, but understanding the common patterns can improve your fluency. Here are some key structural elements:

• Subject + Argue + (with/for/against/that) + (Object/Clause): This is the most common structure. The subject (who is arguing) is followed by the verb “argue,” and then a preposition or conjunction indicating the target or content of the argument.
• Argue + (that) + Clause: In this structure, “argue” directly introduces a clause that expresses the argument being made. The “that” is often optional.
• Argue + (Direct Object) + (Prepositional Phrase): This structure involves arguing a specific point or issue, often followed by a prepositional phrase that provides further context.

Understanding the tense of “argue” is also important. It can be used in the present, past, future, and perfect tenses, as well as in continuous forms.

Each tense conveys a different nuance related to the timing of the argument.

For example:

• Present Simple: She argues her point well. (General statement)
• Present Continuous: They are arguing about politics. (Ongoing action)
• Past Simple: He argued with his brother yesterday. (Completed action)
• Past Continuous: We were arguing when the phone rang. (Action in progress)
• Present Perfect: I have argued this point many times. (Action completed at an unspecified time)
• Future Simple: I will argue my case in court. (Future action)

Types of “Argue”

The verb “argue” is often used with prepositions to create different meanings and contexts. Here are some common variations:

Argue With

“Argue with” implies a disagreement or quarrel between two or more people. It suggests a confrontational situation where opposing viewpoints are expressed, often with some level of emotion.

Argue For

“Argue for” means to support something with reasons or evidence. It involves advocating for a particular cause, idea, or policy.

Argue Against

“Argue against” means to oppose something with reasons or evidence. It involves presenting counterarguments and highlighting the flaws or disadvantages of a particular idea or policy.

Argue That

“Argue that” introduces a specific claim or proposition that someone is trying to prove or support. It signals that the speaker is about to present their main argument.

Argue Someone Into

“Argue someone into” means to persuade someone to do something through reasoning and persuasion. It implies that the person was initially reluctant but was eventually convinced.

Argue Someone Out Of

“Argue someone out of” means to dissuade someone from doing something through reasoning and persuasion. It implies that the person was initially inclined to do something but was eventually convinced not to.

Examples of “Argue” in Sentences

To illustrate the various uses of “argue,” here are several examples categorized by the type of usage. These examples will help you understand how “argue” functions in different contexts and with different prepositions.

The following table demonstrates the use of “argue with” in various contexts. Notice how it always implies a disagreement or confrontation between two parties.

Sentence	Context
I often argue with my sister about politics.	Family disagreement
The lawyer argued with the judge about the evidence.	Legal dispute
Don’t argue with me; I’m just stating the facts.	Asserting authority
He likes to argue with strangers online.	Online interaction
They argued with the waiter about the bill.	Customer service
She argued with her boss about the project deadline.	Workplace conflict
The children were arguing with each other over a toy.	Childhood dispute
My parents always argue with each other about money.	Family financial issues
The students argued with the professor about the grade.	Academic disagreement
We argued with the car dealer about the price.	Negotiation
I tried not to argue with him, but he was being unreasonable.	Personal conflict
The neighbors argued with each other about the property line.	Property dispute
She argued with herself about whether to accept the job offer.	Internal conflict
The politicians argued with each other during the debate.	Political debate
The couple argued with the contractor about the repairs.	Home improvement dispute
He didn’t want to argue with the police officer.	Interaction with law enforcement
The team members argued with each other about the strategy.	Teamwork conflict
They argued with the customer service representative for hours.	Customer complaint
I hate to argue with people, but sometimes it’s necessary.	Personal preference
The friends argued with each other over a misunderstanding.	Friendship conflict
The siblings always argue with each other.	Sibling rivalry
The players argued with the referee about the call.	Sports dispute
The citizens argued with the government about the new law.	Political opposition

The following table demonstrates the use of “argue for” in various contexts. It shows how it’s used to support a cause, idea, or policy.

Sentence	Context
She argued for the importance of education.	Advocating for education
The lawyer argued for his client’s innocence.	Legal defense
He argued for a change in policy.	Policy reform
They argued for more funding for the project.	Financial support
We argued for equal rights for all citizens.	Social justice
The environmentalist argued for protecting the rainforest.	Environmental advocacy
The union argued for better working conditions.	Labor rights
The politician argued for lower taxes.	Political platform
The activist argued for peace and non-violence.	Peace advocacy
The scientist argued for further research into the disease.	Scientific research
The teacher argued for smaller class sizes.	Educational improvement
The community argued for a new park in the neighborhood.	Community development
The manager argued for a flexible work schedule.	Workplace flexibility
The doctor argued for preventative healthcare.	Healthcare advocacy
The historian argued for preserving historical landmarks.	Historical preservation
The artist argued for freedom of expression.	Artistic freedom
The economist argued for free trade.	Economic policy
The writer argued for the importance of literacy.	Literacy advocacy
The advocate argued for animal rights.	Animal welfare
The speaker argued for sustainable development.	Environmental sustainability
The reformer argued for prison reform.	Justice system reform
The diplomat argued for international cooperation.	Global relations
The inventor argued for the practicality of his invention.	Technological advancement

The following table demonstrates the use of “argue against” in various contexts. It illustrates how it is used to oppose an idea, policy, or action.

Sentence	Context
She argued against the proposed tax increase.	Tax policy
The lawyer argued against the admissibility of the evidence.	Legal objection
He argued against the war.	Anti-war stance
They argued against the construction of the new factory.	Environmental concern
We argued against the decision to close the school.	Education policy
The scientist argued against the theory.	Scientific skepticism
The activist argued against deforestation.	Environmental protection
The politician argued against the new regulation.	Regulatory opposition
The economist argued against protectionism.	Economic policy
The doctor argued against the use of the drug.	Medical caution
The community argued against the zoning change.	Community planning
The employee argued against the company’s new policy.	Workplace dissent
The historian argued against the revisionist interpretation.	Historical accuracy
The artist argued against censorship.	Freedom of expression
The writer argued against plagiarism.	Ethical writing
The consumer advocate argued against deceptive advertising.	Consumer protection
The ethicist argued against the practice.	Ethical concerns
The philosopher argued against the idea.	Philosophical debate
The journalist argued against the corruption.	Investigative reporting
The reformer argued against the outdated laws.	Legal reform
The activist argued against social injustice.	Social justice advocacy
The scientist argued against the climate change denial.	Climate science
The citizen argued against the government’s decision.	Political opposition

The following table demonstrates the use of “argue that” in various contexts. It shows how it introduces a specific claim or proposition being supported.

Sentence	Context
The scientist argued that climate change is a serious threat.	Scientific assertion
The lawyer argued that the evidence was circumstantial.	Legal claim
He argued that the economy would improve.	Economic prediction
They argued that the project was too expensive.	Financial assessment
We argued that the policy was unfair.	Ethical judgment
The historian argued that the event had a significant impact.	Historical analysis
The philosopher argued that the concept was flawed.	Philosophical critique
The economist argued that the market would correct itself.	Economic theory
The doctor argued that the treatment was necessary.	Medical opinion
The teacher argued that the students needed more support.	Educational advocacy
The politician argued that the law would benefit the country.	Political justification
The community leader argued that the neighborhood needed investment.	Community development
The artist argued that art should be accessible to everyone.	Artistic philosophy
The writer argued that words have power.	Literary belief
The activist argued that change was possible.	Social activism
The inventor argued that his invention would revolutionize the industry.	Technological optimism
The analyst argued that the company was undervalued.	Financial analysis
The consultant argued that the strategy was ineffective.	Business assessment
The researcher argued that the findings were significant.	Scientific conclusion
The speaker argued that everyone deserves a fair chance.	Ethical principle
The reformer argued that the system needed to be overhauled.	Systemic change
The journalist argued that the public had a right to know.	Freedom of information
The diplomat argued that dialogue was the key to peace.	Diplomatic strategy

These additional examples illustrate “argue someone into” and “argue someone out of” and capture the persuasive aspect of the verb “argue”.

Sentence	Context
He argued me into going to the party, even though I was tired.	Persuading someone to attend an event
She argued her parents into letting her go on the trip.	Convincing parents
They argued him into investing in the company.	Persuading someone to invest
I argued my friend into trying the new restaurant.	Encouraging someone to try something new
The salesman argued the customer into buying the extended warranty.	Sales tactics
She argued me out of quitting my job.	Discouraging someone from quitting
He argued his friend out of making a rash decision.	Preventing impulsive actions
They argued her out of selling her house.	Convincing someone to keep their property
I argued my brother out of dropping out of college.	Encouraging someone to continue education
The advisor argued the student out of choosing the wrong major.	Guidance and counseling
The child argued his parents into buying him a new toy.	Childhood persuasion
The lawyer argued the judge into granting a delay.	Legal maneuvering
The influencer argued her followers into donating to the cause.	Social media influence
The negotiator argued the company into accepting the deal.	Business negotiation
The doctor argued the patient into getting the surgery.	Medical persuasion
The friends argued him out of making a fool of himself.	Preventing embarrassment
The police officer argued the suspect out of resisting arrest.	Law enforcement
The therapist argued the patient out of self-destructive behavior.	Mental health intervention
The mentor argued the mentee out of giving up on their dreams.	Personal encouragement
The coach argued the player out of retiring.	Sports coaching

Usage Rules for “Argue”

To use “argue” correctly, it’s important to follow certain grammatical rules and understand the nuances of its usage. Here are some key rules:

• Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the verb “argue” agrees with its subject in number. For example, “He argues” (singular) versus “They argue” (plural).
• Tense Consistency: Use the correct tense to indicate the timing of the argument. Be consistent with the tense throughout the sentence or paragraph.
• Preposition Usage: Use the correct preposition (with, for, against, etc.) to convey the intended meaning.
• Clarity: Ensure that the argument being made is clear and unambiguous. Avoid vague or confusing language.
• Formal vs. Informal: In formal writing, avoid using “argue” to simply mean “state.” Instead, reserve it for situations involving genuine disagreement or the presentation of evidence.

Exceptions and Special Cases:

• “Argue the toss”: This British idiom means to protest or dispute a decision, especially in sports.
• “Argue the point”: This means to continue discussing a topic even when it’s clear that no agreement will be reached.

Common Mistakes with “Argue”

Even advanced learners sometimes make mistakes when using “argue.” Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
I argue with to him.	I argue with him.	The preposition “with” doesn’t need an additional “to.”
She argue that it is wrong.	She argues that it is wrong.	Subject-verb agreement: “She” requires the singular form “argues.”
He argued for against the proposal.	He argued against the proposal.	“Argue for” and “argue against” have opposite meanings; choose the correct one.
They are argue about the issue.	They are arguing about the issue.	Use the correct continuous form: “arguing.”
I will argue him to do it.	I will argue him into doing it.	The correct idiom is “argue someone into doing something.”
I argue to him about the issue.	I argue with him about the issue.	The correct preposition to use is “with.”
She argued for the war, but I argued for against it.	She argued for the war, but I argued against it.	Avoid redundant prepositions.
He argue me out of doing it.	He argued me out of doing it.	Use the correct past tense form of the verb.
They argue for the policy, but I am disagree.	They argue for the policy, but I disagree.	Use the correct verb form “disagree.”
We are argue about the money.	We are arguing about the money.	Use the continuous form of the verb “arguing.”

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of “argue” with these exercises. Choose the correct form of “argue” or complete the sentence with the appropriate preposition.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences with the correct form of “argue” (argue, argues, argued, arguing).

Question	Answer
1. She always ______ for what she believes in.	argues
2. They were ______ about the best way to solve the problem.	arguing
3. He ______ that the evidence was insufficient.	argued
4. I don’t want to ______ with you about this.	argue
5. The lawyer ______ for his client’s release.	argued
6. She is ______ against the new policy.	arguing
7. We ______ about politics all the time.	argue
8. They had ______ for hours before reaching a decision.	argued
9. He ______ his case very persuasively.	argued
10. I am ______ that we should reconsider our options.	arguing

Exercise 2: Choose the Correct Preposition

Choose the correct preposition (with, for, against, that) to complete the following sentences.

Question	Answer
1. I don’t like to argue ______ my parents.	with
2. She argued ______ the importance of education.	for
3. He argued ______ the proposed changes.	against
4. They argued ______ the project was too expensive.	that
5. We argued ______ equal rights for everyone.	for
6. The lawyer argued ______ the evidence was inadmissible.	that
7. She argued ______ her boss about the deadline.	with
8. He argued ______ the need for more funding.	for
9. They argued ______ the decision to close the factory.	against
10. I argued ______ him to reconsider his decision.	with

Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes

Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.

Question	Answer
1. She argue with me yesterday.	She argued with me yesterday.
2. He argues for against the plan.	He argues against the plan.
3. They are argue about the money.	They are arguing about the money.
4. I will argue him to do it.	I will argue him into doing it.
5. She argue that the policy is wrong.	She argues that the policy is wrong.
6. We argue with to them about the issue.	We argue with them about the issue.
7. He argued me out of to make the purchase.	He argued me out of making the purchase.
8. They are argue for the change.	They are arguing for the change.
9. She argued him into for going to the party.	She argued him into going to the party.
10. I don’t want argue with you now.	I don’t want to argue with you now.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, understanding the more subtle nuances of “argue” can further enhance their communication skills. This includes recognizing the role of context, tone, and rhetorical devices in shaping the meaning of an argument.

Rhetorical Strategies: The verb “argue” is often used in conjunction with various rhetorical strategies, such as:

• Logos: Appealing to logic and reason.
• Pathos: Appealing to emotions.
• Ethos: Establishing credibility and authority.

By understanding these strategies, you can analyze and construct more persuasive arguments.

Subtleties of Tone: The tone in which an argument is presented can significantly impact its reception. A respectful and empathetic tone is often more effective than an aggressive or confrontational one. Consider the audience and the context when choosing your words and delivery style.

Implied Arguments: Sometimes, an argument is not explicitly stated but is implied through the use of language and imagery. Recognizing these implied arguments requires a high level of linguistic awareness and critical thinking skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about using “argue”:

1. What is the difference between “argue” and “discuss”?

   “Argue” implies a disagreement or the presentation of opposing viewpoints, while “discuss” suggests a more neutral exchange of ideas. You can discuss a topic without necessarily arguing about it.

2. Can “argue” be used in a positive sense?

   Yes, “argue” can be used in a positive sense when it means to present reasons in support of something. For example, “She argued for the benefits of exercise.”

3. Is it rude to “argue” with someone?

   It depends on the context and the tone. If done respectfully and constructively, arguing can be a healthy way to exchange ideas and resolve conflicts. However, if it becomes heated or disrespectful, it can be considered rude.

4. What are some synonyms for “argue”?

   Synonyms for “argue” include debate, dispute, contend, maintain, assert, and reason.

5. How can I improve my ability to “argue” effectively?

   To improve your ability to argue effectively, practice active listening, research your topic thoroughly, present your arguments logically and clearly, and be open to considering different perspectives.

6. When should I avoid “arguing”?

   You should avoid arguing when the other person is not willing to listen, when the issue is trivial, or when arguing would escalate the situation and cause more harm than good.

7. Is “argue” a formal or informal word?

   “Argue” is generally considered a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in formal writing, it’s important to use it precisely and avoid using it simply as a synonym for “state.”

8. What does it mean to “argue the toss”?

   “Argue the toss” is a British idiom that means to protest or dispute a decision, especially in sports or other competitive situations.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “argue” involves understanding its various definitions, structural patterns, and contextual nuances. By grasping the different ways it combines with prepositions and by avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly improve your communication skills.

This article has provided a comprehensive guide to using “argue” effectively in various situations, from formal debates to everyday conversations.

Remember to practice using “argue” in different contexts and to pay attention to the tone and clarity of your arguments. With consistent effort, you’ll become more confident and proficient in using this versatile verb.

Keep practicing with the exercises provided, and always strive to understand the context in which you are using the word “argue.” This will help ensure that your communication is clear, effective, and appropriate.