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B1 verb #27 most common 14 min read

argues

Top 27

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips argues in 30 Seconds

Explanation argues in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'argues' is a word you might use to talk about people being angry with each other. It usually means two people are talking in a loud or unhappy way because they don't agree. For example, 'He argues with his sister about toys.' At this level, you don't need to worry about the academic meaning. Just think of it as a word for a small fight with words. It is the form we use for 'he,' 'she,' or 'it.' If you are talking about yourself, you say 'I argue.' If you talk about a friend, you say 'My friend argues.' It is a simple way to describe a common situation at home or school where people are not happy with each other's ideas. You will often see it with the word 'with.'

At the A2 level, you can start to use 'argues' to describe more than just shouting. It can mean having a disagreement about a topic. You might hear it in sentences like 'He argues that the movie was bad.' This shows that the person is giving an opinion. You will also see it used with 'for' or 'against.' For example, 'She argues for more homework' (she wants more) or 'He argues against the new rule' (he does not want the rule). It is still mostly used for people you know, but you might start to see it in simple news stories or school books. Remember to always add the 's' when the subject is one person (he/she/it). It is a useful word for expressing opinions and describing how people feel about rules and choices.

At the B1 level, 'argues' becomes a very important word for writing essays and giving presentations. It is no longer just about fighting; it is about 'making a case.' When a writer 'argues' something, they are providing reasons to support their idea. You will frequently use the structure 'argues that [sentence].' For example, 'The author argues that social media is addictive.' This is a more professional way to say 'The author says.' It implies that there is logic and evidence behind the statement. You should also be comfortable using it with adverbs, like 'He strongly argues for a change.' At this level, you are expected to understand the difference between an emotional argument (a fight) and a logical argument (a point of view).

At the B2 level, you should use 'argues' to show a sophisticated understanding of rhetoric and debate. It is a key 'reporting verb' used to summarize the positions of different experts. You might say, 'While Smith argues that the economy is growing, Jones argues that the data is misleading.' This shows you can compare different viewpoints. You will also encounter 'argues' in more abstract contexts, such as 'The evidence argues for a rethink of our strategy.' Here, the subject is not a person, but a thing (the evidence). This is a common feature of upper-intermediate English. You should also be aware of related words like 'argumentative' (an adjective for someone who likes to fight) and 'arguably' (an adverb used to mean 'it can be argued').

At the C1 level, 'argues' is used with precision to describe the nuances of academic and legal discourse. You will use it to introduce complex theses and to dissect the logic of others. You might use it in the passive voice in very formal contexts, though 'it is argued that' is more common than 'it is argued by.' You will also use 'argues' to describe the underlying message of a work of art or literature: 'The novel argues that power inevitably corrupts.' At this level, you should be able to distinguish 'argues' from similar verbs like 'contends,' 'posits,' 'maintains,' and 'asserts,' choosing the one that best fits the strength and nature of the claim. You understand that 'argues' implies a structured, persuasive effort rather than just a simple statement of fact.

At the C2 level, 'argues' is a tool for high-level intellectual engagement. You use it to navigate the most complex theoretical frameworks. You might discuss how a particular philosophical school 'argues for' a specific ontological position. You are also sensitive to the 'metaphorical' uses of the word, where historical trends or social forces 'argue' for a certain outcome. Your use of 'argues' is often accompanied by sophisticated modifiers: 'He cogently argues,' 'She fallaciously argues,' or 'The text implicitly argues.' At this level, the word is part of a vast repertoire of rhetorical verbs that allow you to describe the movement of ideas with absolute clarity and stylistic flair. You recognize 'argues' as a fundamental building block of Western dialectic and use it to participate in global academic and professional conversations.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

argues in 30 Seconds

Argues is the third-person singular form of the verb 'argue,' used for subjects like he, she, it, or a single entity.
It has two main meanings: to present a logical case for an idea or to have an angry disagreement with someone.
In academic writing, it is a formal way to introduce a thesis or a claim supported by evidence or logic.
Commonly used with prepositions like 'that' (for ideas), 'with' (for people), 'for' (support), and 'against' (opposition).

The word argues is a versatile verb that functions as the third-person singular present tense of 'argue.' At its core, it describes the act of presenting a case, a reason, or a set of evidence to support a specific conclusion. However, the word carries two distinct primary flavors depending on the context: the intellectual/academic sense and the interpersonal/confrontational sense. In an academic or professional setting, when a researcher argues a point, they are not shouting; rather, they are systematically laying out logic to persuade an audience. Conversely, in a domestic or social setting, if someone argues with a friend, it often implies a verbal disagreement or a clash of opinions that might involve heightened emotions.

Academic Assertion: In this context, 'argues' is a neutral, formal way to introduce a thesis. For example, 'The author argues that economic stability requires low inflation.' Here, it signifies the presentation of a reasoned position.

The latest report argues for a complete overhaul of the current healthcare system to ensure equitable access for all citizens.

Understanding the nuance of 'argues' requires looking at the intent behind the communication. If the intent is to clarify a position, it is a tool of logic. If the intent is to vent frustration, it is a tool of conflict. In linguistics, 'argues' often acts as a reporting verb, similar to 'claims' or 'states,' but with an added layer of 'persuasion.' It suggests that the speaker is not just providing information but is actively trying to convince the listener of a specific truth. This makes it a powerful word in debate, law, and philosophy.

Interpersonal Conflict: When used to describe a fight, 'argues' implies a back-and-forth exchange. 'He argues with his neighbor every morning over the parking spot.' This usage highlights friction and disagreement.

She constantly argues against any changes to the project timeline, fearing it will compromise the final quality.

Furthermore, 'argues' can be used to describe an inanimate object or a set of facts that seem to point toward a conclusion. We might say, 'The evidence argues against the defendant's alibi.' In this metaphorical sense, the facts themselves are doing the 'persuading.' This is a high-level usage common in legal and scientific writing. It removes the human element and focuses on the objective weight of the data provided.

Logical Deduction: In logic, a premise 'argues' for a conclusion. This is the most abstract form of the word, where the structure of the thought itself is the actor.

The success of the pilot program argues strongly for its expansion to other regions next year.

In summary, 'argues' is a bridge between the world of emotional conflict and the world of rational discourse. Whether it is a child who argues about bedtime or a philosopher who argues for the existence of free will, the word captures the human drive to assert a position and seek some form of validation or victory. It is a word of action, movement, and intellectual friction.

He argues his case with such passion that even his critics find themselves nodding in agreement.

The defense attorney argues that the witness's testimony is unreliable due to poor lighting at the scene.

Using 'argues' correctly involves matching the subject with the appropriate preposition. The most common structures are 'argues that,' 'argues for,' 'argues against,' and 'argues with.' Each of these changes the focus of the sentence significantly. 'Argues that' introduces a clause or a statement of fact. 'Argues for' indicates support for a cause or policy. 'Argues against' indicates opposition. 'Argues with' identifies the person or entity being disagreed with. Mastery of these prepositions is key to sounding natural in English.

The 'That' Clause: This is the standard academic form. 'The professor argues that the Industrial Revolution was the turning point of modern history.' It sets up a complete thought as the object of the argument.

The editorial argues that the city needs more green spaces to improve public mental health.

When you use 'argues for' or 'argues against,' you are describing a stance. This is common in political and social discourse. For instance, 'The senator argues for lower taxes' or 'The activist argues against the new pipeline.' These phrases are often followed by a noun or a gerund (a verb ending in -ing). It is a concise way to state a position without needing a full 'that' clause. This brevity is often preferred in headlines and summaries.

The Interpersonal 'With': This describes the social interaction. 'My brother argues with everyone he meets.' It focuses on the act of conflict rather than the content of the argument.

He often argues with his boss about the best way to handle customer complaints.

In more complex sentences, 'argues' can be modified by adverbs to show the intensity or the nature of the argument. Words like 'persuasively,' 'vehemently,' 'rationally,' or 'convincingly' add depth. 'The scientist persuasively argues that the data has been misinterpreted.' This tells the reader not just what is happening, but how it is being done. Adverbs help distinguish between a logical presentation and an emotional outburst.

Inanimate Subjects: When a situation or fact 'argues' for something. 'The current state of the market argues for a cautious investment strategy.'

The silence from the management team argues for a lack of clear direction within the company.

Finally, consider the placement of 'argues' in the sentence. While it usually follows the subject directly, it can be part of a parenthetical phrase: 'The author, as he argues in the third chapter, believes that...' This structure is useful for referencing previous points while moving the current discussion forward. It shows a high level of control over sentence architecture and is a hallmark of sophisticated writing.

She argues convincingly that the historical records were altered to favor the ruling dynasty.

The lawyer argues the case before the Supreme Court tomorrow morning.

The word 'argues' is a staple in several specific environments. If you are a student, you will encounter it daily in textbooks and lectures. Professors use it to describe the theories of others: 'Smith argues that...' In this context, it is the bread and butter of academic citation. It is also extremely common in the news, particularly in opinion pieces and editorials where the writer is taking a stand on a public issue. If you listen to political podcasts or watch news debates, you will hear moderators say things like, 'The senator argues that the budget is too high, but his opponent disagrees.'

Legal Settings: In a courtroom, 'argues' is a technical term. A lawyer 'argues a motion' or 'argues the law.' It refers to the formal presentation of legal reasons to a judge.

The prosecution argues that the DNA evidence is conclusive and leaves no room for doubt.

In everyday conversation, you might hear 'argues' when people are gossiping or describing family dynamics. 'She always argues with her mom about what to wear.' Here, the word is less about logic and more about the emotional friction of daily life. It is often used to characterize someone's personality—someone who is 'argumentative' is someone who 'argues' a lot. In this sense, it can have a slightly negative connotation, implying that the person is difficult or stubborn.

Scientific Literature: Scientists use 'argues' to propose hypotheses. 'This paper argues that the observed phenomenon is caused by solar radiation.'

The study argues that early childhood education has a lifelong impact on earning potential.

You will also find 'argues' in literature and film criticism. A critic might say, 'The director argues through his use of shadow that the protagonist is morally ambiguous.' In this creative context, 'argues' means to suggest or convey a message through artistic choices. It treats the film or book as a rhetorical object that is trying to 'say' something to the audience. This is a very common way to discuss subtext and theme in the humanities.

Business Strategy: In boardrooms, a consultant 'argues for' a specific merger or acquisition based on market trends and financial projections.

The CEO argues that the company must pivot to digital services to remain competitive in the next decade.

Finally, in the world of sports, commentators often say a player 'argues the call' when they disagree with a referee's decision. This is a very visible and often dramatic use of the word, involving physical gestures and intense facial expressions. It highlights the 'disagreement' aspect of the word in a high-stakes, public arena. Whether in a quiet library or a loud stadium, 'argues' is the word we use to describe the human impulse to say, 'I disagree, and here is why.'

The captain argues with the umpire for several minutes before finally returning to the dugout.

One could argue that the rise of social media has fundamentally changed how we perceive privacy.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'argues' is confusing it with 'discusses.' While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Discusses' is neutral and involves exploring multiple sides of an issue. 'Argues' is directional; it means taking a specific side and trying to prove it. If you write, 'The book argues the history of Rome,' it sounds slightly off. It should be 'The book discusses the history of Rome' or 'The book argues that Rome fell because of economic decay.' Always remember that 'argues' needs a specific point or position to be effective.

Subject-Verb Agreement: Mistake: 'The authors argues...' Correction: 'The authors argue...' or 'The author argues...' This is a basic but very common error in fast writing.

Incorrect: He argues about the fact that it is raining. Correct: He argues that it is raining (or) He argues about the rain.

Another common pitfall is the misuse of prepositions. Some learners say 'argues to' when they mean 'argues with' or 'argues that.' For example, 'He argues to his friend' is incorrect. It should be 'He argues with his friend.' Similarly, 'argues for' and 'argues against' are often swapped by mistake. If you want something to happen, you argue 'for' it. If you want to stop something, you argue 'against' it. Getting these small words right is what separates intermediate learners from advanced speakers.

Over-aggression: Sometimes people use 'argues' when they just mean 'says.' If a character in a book says 'Hello,' you wouldn't say 'He argues hello.' Use 'argues' only when there is a point being proven.

Incorrect: The sign argues 'No Parking.' Correct: The sign says 'No Parking.' (Signs don't usually provide reasons/evidence).

There is also the 'transitive' vs 'intransitive' confusion. You can 'argue a case' (transitive), but you cannot 'argue a person.' You 'argue with a person.' If you say 'He argued his brother,' it sounds like he was trying to prove his brother exists, rather than having a disagreement with him. This nuance is vital for clear communication. Lastly, be careful with the 'it argues' construction. While 'the evidence argues' is fine, starting a sentence with 'It argues that...' without a clear reference for 'it' can be confusing for the reader.

The 'Why' vs 'That': 'He argues why we should go' is less common than 'He argues that we should go.' Using 'that' is generally the safer and more professional choice.

Incorrect: She argues to me. Correct: She argues with me.

In conclusion, the most common mistakes involve either failing to provide a specific point for the argument or using the wrong preposition to connect the subject to the object. By focusing on the 'that/for/against/with' patterns, you can avoid 90% of the errors associated with this word. Always ask yourself: Is the subject a person or an idea? Am I supporting or opposing? This will guide you to the correct usage every time.

The researcher argues (not 'discusses') that the results are statistically significant.

He argues with (not 'to') his colleagues about the new policy.

To expand your vocabulary, it is helpful to look at words that share a semantic space with 'argues.' Depending on the context, you might choose a word that is more specific. For instance, 'contends' is a very close synonym often used in formal writing. It suggests a strong assertion in the face of potential opposition. 'Asserts' is similar but slightly more neutral, focusing on the confidence of the speaker. 'Maintains' suggests that the person has held this view for a long time and continues to do so despite challenges. These nuances allow you to be more precise in your descriptions.

Contends vs. Argues: 'Contends' is more formal and often implies a competition of ideas. 'The defense contends that the evidence was tampered with.' It sounds more 'legalistic' than 'argues.'

While the report argues for change, the chairman contends that the current system is perfectly adequate.

In less formal settings, 'bickers' or 'squabbles' are great alternatives when 'argues' feels too heavy. These words imply petty or unimportant disagreements. If two children are fighting over a toy, 'they are bickering' is more descriptive than 'they are arguing.' On the other hand, if the disagreement is very intense and angry, you might use 'clashes' or 'feuds.' 'The two politicians clash over tax policy' sounds more dynamic and high-stakes than simply saying they 'argue.' Choosing the right synonym helps set the tone of your narrative.

Maintains vs. Argues: 'Maintains' implies persistence. 'He maintains his innocence' means he has said it before and is still saying it now. 'Argues' is more about the logic used to prove that innocence.

She argues that the project is over budget, but the manager maintains that the costs are under control.

In academic writing, 'posits' or 'proposes' are excellent alternatives when you are introducing a new theory. 'The researcher posits that...' sounds very sophisticated. It suggests a tentative but reasoned starting point for an argument. If the argument is based on a specific interpretation of data, 'suggests' might be better: 'The data suggests that...' This is a softer way of arguing that leaves room for other interpretations, which is often valued in the scientific community for its humility and accuracy.

Disputes vs. Argues Against: 'Disputes' is a strong verb for direct disagreement. 'The witness disputes the officer's account.' It is more direct than 'argues against.'

The scientist argues for a new model, while his peer disputes the validity of his initial measurements.

By mastering these alternatives, you can tailor your language to the specific situation. Whether you need the formal weight of 'contends,' the persistence of 'maintains,' or the informal lightness of 'bickers,' you now have a toolkit to describe disagreements and assertions with precision. 'Argues' remains the most versatile and common choice, but its 'cousins' in the dictionary allow for much more expressive and nuanced communication.

He argues his point with the same vigor that a seasoned debater asserts their position.

The philosopher argues that truth is subjective, a claim that many of his contemporaries dispute.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root of 'argues' is the same as the Latin word for silver (argentum), because both relate to the idea of being 'bright' or 'clear.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɑːɡ.juːz/

US /ˈɑːrɡ.juːz/

The stress is on the first syllable: AR-gues.

Rhymes With

views news blues clues dues fuses muses shoes

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 's' as an 's' instead of a 'z'.
Dropping the 'y' sound (saying 'ar-gooz' instead of 'ar-gyooz').
Stressing the second syllable.
Making the 'g' sound too soft like a 'j'.
Shortening the 'ah' sound in the first syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and books, but requires understanding of context.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct prepositions and subject-verb agreement.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce but often confused with 'discuss'.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to catch in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

say think angry with for

Learn Next

contend assert maintain rhetoric logic

Advanced

dialectic syllogism polemic apologia refutation

Grammar to Know

Third-Person Singular 'S'

He argues (correct) vs. He argue (incorrect).

Reporting Verbs in the Present Tense

Even if a book was written in 1920, we say 'The author argues' because the book is still 'speaking' today.

Prepositional Choice

Argue with (person), Argue about (topic), Argue for (cause).

That-Clauses

Argues that [Subject + Verb]. 'She argues that the sky is blue.'

Inanimate Agents

Abstract nouns like 'evidence' or 'history' can be the subject of 'argues'.

Examples by Level

He argues with his brother every day.

Il se dispute avec son frère chaque jour.

Third-person singular present tense.

She argues about the TV remote.

Elle se dispute pour la télécommande.

Uses 'about' to show the topic of the fight.

The cat argues with the dog.

Le chat se dispute avec le chien.

Subject is 'The cat' (it).

He argues that he is right.

Il soutient qu'il a raison.

Simple 'that' clause.

My dad argues with the neighbor.

Mon père se dispute avec le voisin.

Subject is 'My dad'.

She argues about her dinner.

Elle rouspète pour son dîner.

Informal usage.

He argues for more play time.

Il demande plus de temps de jeu.

Uses 'for' to show what they want.

The teacher argues with the student.

Le professeur se dispute avec l'élève.

Subject is 'The teacher'.

The article argues that we need more parks.

L'article soutient que nous avons besoin de plus de parcs.

Subject is 'The article'.

He argues against the new school rule.

Il s'oppose à la nouvelle règle de l'école.

Uses 'against' for opposition.

She argues for a longer summer break.

Elle plaide pour des vacances d'été plus longues.

Uses 'for' for support.

The scientist argues that the earth is getting warmer.

Le scientifique soutient que la terre se réchauffe.

Professional context.

He argues with his boss about the schedule.

Il se dispute avec son patron à propos de l'emploi du temps.

Workplace context.

The book argues that reading is good for you.

Le livre soutient que la lecture est bonne pour vous.

Inanimate subject.

She argues that the blue dress is better.

Elle soutient que la robe bleue est mieux.

Expressing a preference.

He argues with the referee during the game.

Il se dispute avec l'arbitre pendant le match.

Sports context.

The author argues that technology has changed our lives.

L'auteur soutient que la technologie a changé nos vies.

Academic reporting verb.

She persuasively argues for environmental protection.

Elle plaide de manière convaincante pour la protection de l'environnement.

Use of adverb 'persuasively'.

The report argues against the proposed tax increase.

Le rapport s'oppose à l'augmentation d'impôts proposée.

Formal opposition.

He argues that the results of the study are invalid.

Il soutient que les résultats de l'étude sont invalides.

Challenging evidence.

The lawyer argues the case in front of the judge.

L'avocat plaide la cause devant le juge.

Legal usage.

She often argues with her colleagues about strategy.

Elle se dispute souvent avec ses collègues à propos de la stratégie.

Professional disagreement.

The documentary argues that we should eat less meat.

Le documentaire soutient que nous devrions manger moins de viande.

Media context.

He argues that education is the key to success.

Il soutient que l'éducation est la clé du succès.

General assertion.

The philosopher argues that morality is not relative.

Le philosophe soutient que la moralité n'est pas relative.

Abstract philosophical claim.

This evidence argues for a change in our current policy.

Cette preuve plaide pour un changement dans notre politique actuelle.

Inanimate subject acting as an agent.

She vehemently argues against any form of censorship.

Elle s'oppose avec véhémence à toute forme de censure.

Use of strong adverb 'vehemently'.

The economist argues that inflation will remain low.

L'économiste soutient que l'inflation restera faible.

Expert opinion.

He argues his point with great clarity and logic.

Il défend son point de vue avec beaucoup de clarté et de logique.

Describing the quality of the argument.

The film argues that the hero is actually the villain.

Le film soutient que le héros est en fait le méchant.

Artistic interpretation.

She argues that the historical data has been misinterpreted.

Elle soutient que les données historiques ont été mal interprétées.

Critical analysis.

The editorial argues for a more aggressive climate policy.

L'éditorial plaide pour une politique climatique plus agressive.

Journalistic stance.

The study argues that the correlation does not imply causation.

L'étude soutient que la corrélation n'implique pas la causalité.

Scientific logic.

He cogently argues that the legal framework is outdated.

Il soutient de manière convaincante que le cadre juridique est obsolète.

Use of 'cogently' for logical strength.

The critic argues that the author's intent was satirical.

Le critique soutient que l'intention de l'auteur était satirique.

Literary analysis.

The silence of the witness argues for her complicity.

Le silence du témoin plaide en faveur de sa complicité.

Abstract metaphorical usage.

She argues that the socioeconomic factors are paramount.

Elle soutient que les facteurs socio-économiques sont primordiaux.

Sociological discourse.

The paper argues for a paradigm shift in physics.

L'article plaide pour un changement de paradigme en physique.

High-level scientific claim.

He argues that the existing research is fundamentally flawed.

Il soutient que la recherche existante est fondamentalement erronée.

Strong academic critique.

The play argues that justice is often a matter of perspective.

La pièce soutient que la justice est souvent une question de perspective.

Thematic analysis.

The philosopher argues for an ontological distinction between mind and body.

Le philosophe plaide pour une distinction ontologique entre l'esprit et le corps.

Highly technical philosophical vocabulary.

The text argues, albeit implicitly, for a return to traditional values.

Le texte plaide, bien qu'implicitement, pour un retour aux valeurs traditionnelles.

Nuanced 'albeit' construction.

She fallaciously argues that the past dictates the future.

Elle soutient fallacieusement que le passé dicte l'avenir.

Identifying logical errors.

The sheer scale of the disaster argues against a quick recovery.

L'ampleur même de la catastrophe plaide contre un rétablissement rapide.

Subject is an abstract quality ('scale').

He argues that the narrative structure serves to alienate the reader.

Il soutient que la structure narrative sert à aliéner le lecteur.

Post-structuralist literary theory.

The prosecution argues that the defendant's motive was purely pecuniary.

L'accusation soutient que le mobile du prévenu était purement pécuniaire.

Formal legal/financial terminology.

The essay argues for a synthesis of these two disparate theories.

L'essai plaide pour une synthèse de ces deux théories disparates.

Complex academic synthesis.

One might argue that the very concept of 'self' is a linguistic construct.

On pourrait soutenir que le concept même de 'soi' est une construction linguistique.

Hypothetical academic inquiry.

Common Collocations

argues convincingly

argues persuasively

argues vehemently

argues strongly

argues the case

argues a point

argues that

argues for

argues against

argues with

Common Phrases

argues the toss

— To continue to disagree about something that has already been decided. It is often seen as annoying.

The decision is final, so there's no point in arguing the toss.

argues into a corner

— To use logic to force someone into a position where they cannot disagree. It shows rhetorical skill.

She argues him into a corner until he has to admit he was wrong.

as he/she argues

— A phrase used to reference someone else's opinion in a text. It is very common in academic writing.

As Smith argues, the data is not yet conclusive.

argues for the sake of it

— To disagree just to be difficult or to start a fight, not because you actually care. It describes a personality trait.

He doesn't have a real opinion; he just argues for the sake of it.

argues in favor of

— A more formal way of saying 'argues for.' It is used in professional reports.

The committee argues in favor of the merger.

argues to the contrary

— To present the opposite opinion or evidence. It is used to show a conflict of ideas.

The evidence argues to the contrary of what was previously believed.

argues from a position of

— To base an argument on a specific background or set of facts. It explains the 'why' behind the view.

She argues from a position of experience as a former teacher.

argues at length

— To talk or write for a long time to prove a point. It implies a very detailed explanation.

The professor argues at length about the causes of the revolution.

argues his/her way out of

— To use words to avoid a punishment or a difficult situation. It shows cleverness.

He always argues his way out of doing the chores.

argues the merits of

— To discuss the good and bad points of something with the goal of reaching a conclusion. It is a balanced approach.

The board argues the merits of the new marketing plan.

Often Confused With

argues vs discusses

'Discusses' is neutral and covers all sides; 'argues' takes one side.

argues vs agrees

The opposite of 'argues' in the context of a disagreement.

argues vs states

'States' is just giving information; 'argues' is trying to persuade.

Idioms & Expressions

"argue the toss"

— To dispute a decision that has already been made. It is often used in British English.

The ref gave a penalty, and there's no use arguing the toss now.

informal

"argue someone into/out of something"

— To persuade someone to do or not do something through reasoning. It shows the power of persuasion.

She argued him into going to the party.

neutral

"argue the hind leg off a donkey"

— To be very talkative and persistent in an argument. It is a humorous idiom.

He's so stubborn he could argue the hind leg off a donkey.

informal

"can't argue with that"

— Used to say that something is obviously true or reasonable. It shows total agreement.

It's a great deal for the price; you can't argue with that.

informal

"argue in a circle"

— To use a conclusion as a premise for the same conclusion. It is a logical fallacy.

His logic is flawed because he just argues in a circle.

academic/formal

"argue the point"

— To focus on the specific issue at hand. It is a professional way to handle a disagreement.

Let's not get personal; let's just argue the point.

neutral

"argue from silence"

— To assume something is true because there is no evidence against it. It is a rhetorical technique.

The historian argues from silence that the king was unpopular.

academic

"argue the case for"

— To act as a representative for an idea or person. It is common in law and advocacy.

She argues the case for renewable energy every chance she gets.

formal

"argue someone down"

— To defeat someone in a debate or to force them to lower a price. It implies a victory.

He argued the salesman down to a much lower price.

informal

"argue against the clock"

— To try to make a point very quickly because time is running out. It shows urgency.

In the final minutes of the debate, he argues against the clock.

neutral

Easily Confused

argues vs argument

It is the noun form.

'Argues' is the action; 'argument' is the thing you have or make.

He argues (verb) because he has a strong argument (noun).

argues vs agree

Similar sound, opposite meaning.

'Agree' means saying yes; 'argue' means saying no or proving a point.

She argues against the plan, but I agree with it.

argues vs arrange

Visual similarity.

'Arrange' means to put in order; 'argue' means to disagree or persuade.

He argues about how to arrange the furniture.

argues vs augurs

Very similar spelling.

'Augurs' means to predict a future outcome; 'argues' means to present a case.

The low turnout augurs poorly for the candidate, who argues for change.

argues vs accuses

Both involve conflict.

'Accuses' means saying someone did something wrong; 'argues' means disagreeing or proving a point.

He accuses her of lying, and she argues that she is innocent.

Sentence Patterns

He argues with [Person].

He argues with his mom.

She argues about [Thing].

She argues about the game.

The writer argues that [Clause].

The writer argues that we are too busy.

[Noun] argues for [Action].

The report argues for increasing the budget.

[Adverb] argues that [Clause].

He cogently argues that the law is unfair.

[Abstract Noun] argues against [Noun].

The data argues against the hypothesis.

One might argue that [Clause].

One might argue that beauty is objective.

The text argues, [Phrase], for [Noun].

The text argues, through its imagery, for a return to nature.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English, especially in news and education.

Common Mistakes

They argues with the teacher. → They argue with the teacher.
The subject 'They' is plural, so the verb should be 'argue,' not 'argues.'
The book argues about the history. → The book discusses the history.
Books 'discuss' topics; they 'argue' specific points or theories. Unless the book is taking a controversial side, 'discusses' is better.
He argues to his friend. → He argues with his friend.
In English, we argue 'with' a person, not 'to' them.
She argues for not going. → She argues against going.
While 'argues for not' is grammatically possible, 'argues against' is much more natural and common.
It argues that the sky is blue. → The report argues that the sky is blue.
Avoid using 'It' as a subject for 'argues' unless 'It' clearly refers to a specific document or person mentioned earlier.

Tips

Subject-Verb Agreement

Always ensure your subject is singular when using 'argues.' Use 'The study argues' but 'The studies argue.' This is a common mistake in academic writing.

Vary Your Reporting Verbs

Don't use 'argues' in every sentence of your essay. Mix it up with 'suggests,' 'contends,' or 'demonstrates' to keep the reader engaged and show your range.

Tone Matters

In speech, the way you say 'argues' can change its meaning. A soft tone suggests a logical point, while a sharp, loud tone suggests a personal conflict.

Learn the Prepositions

The meaning of 'argues' changes with the preposition. 'Argues that' (idea), 'Argues with' (person), 'Argues for' (support), 'Argues against' (opposition).

The Power of Persuasion

In university, 'argues' is better than 'says' because it implies you understand the author is trying to prove something with evidence.

Identify the Premise

When you see 'argues that,' look for the reasons following it. An argument is only as good as the evidence provided.

Respectful Disagreement

In professional English, 'arguing' is often seen as a sign of critical thinking. Don't be afraid to use the word to describe your own positions.

Look for the 'But'

Often, 'argues' is followed by a counter-argument. Look for words like 'however' or 'on the other hand' to see the full picture.

Don't Argue the Toss

Learn this idiom to describe someone who won't let go of a lost cause. it's a great way to sound more like a native speaker.

Use Adverbs

Add 'strongly,' 'convincingly,' or 'vehemently' before 'argues' to give more detail about how the person is speaking.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of an 'ARGonaut' (a hero) who 'UES' (uses) his voice to win. He AR-GUES.

Visual Association

Imagine a lawyer pointing a finger at a document while speaking to a judge. This captures the 'presenting evidence' side of the word.

Word Web

Logic Fight Persuade Evidence Disagree Thesis Debate Claim

Challenge

Try to write three sentences using 'argues' in three different ways: one about a fight, one about a book, and one about a scientist.

Word Origin

The word comes from the Old French 'arguer,' which meant to make clear, assert, or prove. This, in turn, derived from the Latin 'arguere,' meaning to make bright, enlighten, or make known.

Original meaning: To make clear or to prove. The sense of 'shouting' or 'fighting' developed later in English.

Indo-European -> Italic -> Latin -> Romance -> English.

Cultural Context

Be careful using 'argues' to describe a superior's actions, as it can sometimes sound like you are accusing them of being difficult.

In English-speaking countries, 'arguing' is often separated into 'having an argument' (bad) and 'making an argument' (good).

The 'Argument Clinic' sketch by Monty Python. Aristotle's 'Rhetoric' which defines how one argues. The Supreme Court oral arguments.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic Writing

The author argues that...
This paper argues for...
One could argue that...
As Smith argues...

Legal Proceedings

The defense argues...
Argue a motion
Argue the law
Argue the facts

Family/Social Life

Argues with his parents
Argues about money
Stop arguing!
Always argues back

Politics/News

The senator argues for...
The editorial argues against...
Critics argue that...
Supporters argue that...

Sports

Argues the call
Argues with the ref
Player argues his case
Coach argues for a foul

Conversation Starters

"How often do you find yourself in a situation where someone argues for something you disagree with?"

"Do you think a person who argues a lot is smart or just annoying?"

"If a scientist argues that the world is flat, what evidence would you use to argue against them?"

"In your culture, is it considered rude if a child argues with an adult?"

"Can you think of a book or movie that argues for a very strange idea?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you had to argue for something you really believed in. What reasons did you give?

Describe a character who argues with everyone they meet. Why do they do it?

Think of a rule in your city. Write a paragraph where you argue against that rule.

If you were a lawyer, how would you argue the case for a person who stole bread to feed their family?

Reflect on how you feel when someone argues with you. Do you listen or do you get angry?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'argues' is not always negative. In academic and professional settings, it is a positive or neutral word that means someone is providing a logical reason for their beliefs. For example, 'The scientist argues for a new discovery' is a positive use of the word.

No, 'argues' is only for a singular subject (he, she, it, the company, the book). If you have more than one person, you must use 'argue.' For example: 'They argue' vs 'He argues.'

If you 'argue for' something, you want it to happen or you support it. If you 'argue against' something, you are opposed to it and want to stop it. For example, 'She argues for more breaks' means she wants more breaks.

It can be both. In the sense of 'fighting with words,' it is neutral/informal. In the sense of 'presenting a thesis,' it is formal and very common in academic writing.

Yes, in a metaphorical sense. You can say 'The evidence argues for a different conclusion.' This means the facts point toward that conclusion.

The 's' is pronounced like a 'z' sound. It sounds like 'AR-gyooz'.

Good synonyms include 'contends,' 'asserts,' 'maintains,' or 'claims.' Each has a slightly different nuance.

Not exactly. 'Fights' can be physical or very emotional. 'Argues' is specifically about using words and logic, even if it is done angrily.

It is a British idiom meaning to continue disagreeing about a decision that has already been made and cannot be changed.

Use 'argues with' when you are identifying the person who is on the other side of the disagreement. For example, 'He argues with his boss.'