To argue against
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
Use it when you have logical reasons to prove why a specific plan or idea is a mistake.
Em 15 segundos
- Opposing an idea by providing logical reasons and evidence.
- Commonly used in debates, meetings, and academic writing.
- Stronger and more structured than a simple disagreement.
Significado
When you 'argue against' something, you are giving reasons why an idea, plan, or opinion is wrong or shouldn't happen. It is like being a lawyer for the 'No' side of a debate.
Exemplos-chave
3 de 6In a corporate strategy meeting
I have to argue against the budget cuts because they will hurt our productivity.
I have to argue against the budget cuts because they will hurt our productivity.
Discussing weekend plans with a partner
I'm going to argue against hiking today since it's supposed to pour rain.
I'm going to argue against hiking today since it's supposed to pour rain.
Writing a university essay
Many historians argue against the theory that the war was inevitable.
Many historians argue against the theory that the war was inevitable.
Contexto cultural
The phrase reflects the Western tradition of dialectic and debate, dating back to Ancient Greek philosophy. In modern corporate and academic culture, 'arguing against' is considered a vital skill for 'stress-testing' ideas to ensure they are robust before implementation.
Focus on the 'Why'
When you use this phrase, people expect a reason to follow immediately. Always be ready with a 'because'!
Don't confuse with 'Argue with'
You 'argue with' a person (an interaction), but you 'argue against' an idea or a thing (a position).
Em 15 segundos
- Opposing an idea by providing logical reasons and evidence.
- Commonly used in debates, meetings, and academic writing.
- Stronger and more structured than a simple disagreement.
What It Means
To argue against something is to take a stand. You are not just disagreeing. You are providing evidence and logic to prove a point. Think of it as pushing back against a specific proposal. You want to show why that path is a mistake.
How To Use It
You use this phrase followed by the thing you dislike. You can argue against a new law. You can argue against a friend's bad dating advice. It usually follows the pattern: [Person] + [argues against] + [Idea/Action]. It is a strong, active way to express opposition.
When To Use It
Use this in serious discussions or debates. It fits perfectly in a business meeting. Use it when discussing politics or social issues. It also works when you are trying to talk a friend out of a bad decision. It sounds more intellectual than just saying 'I don't like that.'
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this for small, personal preferences. You don't argue against a flavor of ice cream. That is just a taste. Don't use it if you are just being grumpy. It implies you have actual reasons. If you have no logic, just say 'I'm not a fan.'
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, especially in the UK and US, critical thinking is highly valued. People are often encouraged to argue against the status quo. It is seen as a sign of a healthy democracy. In university settings, you are often graded on how well you can argue against a famous theory. It is not seen as being rude; it is seen as being smart.
Common Variations
You might hear people say they are making a case against something. That is a bit more formal. You could also say you are opposed to it. If you are doing it just for fun or to test an idea, you are playing devil's advocate. But argue against remains the most direct way to describe the act of verbal opposition.
Notas de uso
This phrase is highly versatile, moving easily from the courtroom to the kitchen table. It carries a 'logical' weight—using it suggests you have thought your position through.
Focus on the 'Why'
When you use this phrase, people expect a reason to follow immediately. Always be ready with a 'because'!
Don't confuse with 'Argue with'
You 'argue with' a person (an interaction), but you 'argue against' an idea or a thing (a position).
The Polite Pushback
In British culture, saying 'One might argue against that...' is a very polite way of saying 'You are completely wrong.'
Exemplos
6I have to argue against the budget cuts because they will hurt our productivity.
I have to argue against the budget cuts because they will hurt our productivity.
Used here to present a logical objection to a company policy.
I'm going to argue against hiking today since it's supposed to pour rain.
I'm going to argue against hiking today since it's supposed to pour rain.
A more casual use based on practical reasoning.
Many historians argue against the theory that the war was inevitable.
Many historians argue against the theory that the war was inevitable.
Standard academic usage for debating historical interpretations.
I'm strongly arguing against you wearing those neon socks to the wedding lol.
I'm strongly arguing against you wearing those neon socks to the wedding lol.
Uses a formal-sounding phrase for a funny, trivial situation.
Please don't argue against my career choice; I need your support right now.
Please don't argue against my career choice; I need your support right now.
Used to express a desire for emotional validation over logical debate.
The defense will argue against the admissibility of this evidence.
The defense will argue against the admissibility of this evidence.
Highly technical legal context.
Teste-se
Choose the best option to complete the sentence regarding a business proposal.
The CEO decided to ___ the expansion because the market was too volatile.
To 'argue against' means to provide reasons why the expansion should not happen.
Complete the sentence to show you have reasons for your disagreement.
It is hard to ___ the facts presented in the report.
When you cannot find reasons to prove facts are wrong, you cannot 'argue against' them.
🎉 Pontuação: /2
Recursos visuais
Formality of 'Argue Against'
Using it with friends for fun.
I argue against that pizza topping!
Standard daily conversation.
I'd argue against taking the highway.
Academic or legal settings.
The evidence argues against the defendant.
Where to use 'Argue Against'
Boardroom
Opposing a risky investment.
Classroom
Debating a scientific theory.
Home
Persuading a kid not to eat candy.
Courtroom
Challenging a witness statement.
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntas'Disagree' is just a feeling or a state of mind. 'Argue against' is an active process where you give reasons to prove the other side is wrong.
Usually, you argue against their *ideas* or *proposals*. If you say you are 'arguing against him,' it usually means you are opposing his specific stance in a debate.
Not at all! It is actually quite professional. It shows you are thinking critically about the topic rather than just being emotional.
Yes, in a metaphorical way. You can say 'The evidence argues against that conclusion,' meaning the facts themselves suggest the conclusion is wrong.
The opposite is argue for. When you argue for something, you are supporting it and giving reasons why it is a good idea.
Yes, it is extremely common in persuasive essays, journalism, and academic papers to structure a counter-argument.
You can add 'would' or 'might.' For example: 'I would argue against that' sounds less aggressive than 'I argue against that.'
You can, but it sounds a bit dramatic or funny. 'I must argue against putting pineapple on this pizza' sounds like you are making a big deal out of a small thing.
Yes, 'against' is the necessary preposition to show the direction of your argument.
A common mistake is saying argue to. You should always use against when you are in opposition.
Frases relacionadas
To make a case against
To systematically present reasons why something should not happen.
To take issue with
To disagree with a specific point or statement.
To play devil's advocate
To argue against an idea just to explore the topic, even if you don't truly disagree.
To object to
To formally state that you do not like or approve of something.
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