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argue
/ˈɑːrɡjuː/
present reasons to support a claim
They argued for better working conditions.
They presented reasons to support the need for better working conditions.
neutral
to present reasons for or against a claim, idea, or action
She argued that the policy would harm small businesses.
She presented reasons why the policy would negatively affect small businesses.
The lawyer argued the case in court.
The lawyer presented legal arguments to support their client's position.
Can be used in formal (e.g., law, academia) or informal contexts.
informal
to quarrel or dispute with someone
They're always arguing about money.
They frequently quarrel about financial matters.
Implies disagreement or conflict, often emotionally charged.
Collocations
argue forpresent reasons in favor of somethingargue againstpresent reasons opposing somethingargue withquarrel with someoneargue overdispute about a topic
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Prepositions matter
Use 'argue for/against' for presenting reasoned support/opposition. Use 'argue with' for quarreling with someone. Example: 'She argued for the policy' vs. 'She argued with her colleague'.
Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal Use
'Argue' in formal contexts (e.g., law, academia) means to present reasoned support. In informal contexts, it often implies quarreling or emotional disagreement.
Word Origin
From Latin 'arguere' (to make clear, assert), via Old French 'arguer' (to accuse, prove). Related to 'argument' (from Latin 'argumentum').
Usage Notes
The verb 'argue' emphasizes presenting reasoned support for a position. In informal contexts, it can imply heated disagreement. Commonly used with prepositions like 'for', 'against', 'with', or 'over'.
Word Breakdown
argu-
to make clear, assert (Latin root)
rootEnglish Dictionary