a point of argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a point of argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a specific issue or topic that is being debated or contested. Example: "During the meeting, she raised a point of argument regarding the budget allocation for the upcoming project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

For years, this was a point of argument against the United States taking action to address climate change: It's a global problem and China pollutes more than we do, so why should we limit ourselves economically when China doesn't?

The Washington Post

Zalman Shoval, a senior foreign policy adviser to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, used the two attacks as a point of argument against the communiqué issued at the United Nations on Tuesday by Secretary of State Colin L. Powell; the United Nations secretary general, Kofi Annan; Russian Foreign Minister Igor S. Ivanov, and senior representatives of the European Union.

The New York Times

UKIP Wales leader Neil Hamilton then intervened, saying it was a "point of argument and debate" and the remarks were related to a bill on gender recognition in the House of Commons.

BBC

While this was already a point of argument between politicians, the terror attacks in Paris only strengthened some stances.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Whether Shakespeare wrote all or only part of the play, however, remains a point of scholarly argument.

The New York Times

The perceived threat of ontological naturalism is also a major point of argument between intelligent design advocates and evolutionists.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

This process did not catalyze the music into saying something new; it did not combine or develop these themes toward a final point of argument as in European compositions.

Wikipedia

The covetous position of Paul McCartney to play bass may be a point of mild controversy, as is the argument between Lennon and McCartney that erupts into a perceived allegation of a homosexual relationship between Lennon and Sutcliffe.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

With the Court seemingly on the verge of an historic precedent, the selection of the lawyers for oral argument became a point of some contention among the many attorneys involved in the various cases.

The New Yorker

So whether that field could shrink is very much a point of discussion and argument among politicians.

The New York Times

But, even as they quote the arguments that we sceptics have been making these past 15 years, they make a point of attacking the arguments they imagine we were making: "We need to determine our own interest rate and exchange rate.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a point of argument" to clearly indicate a specific issue that is being debated within a larger discussion or context.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a point of argument" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "something to argue about" or "a debatable issue" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a point of argument" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a particular issue or topic that is the focus of disagreement or discussion. This is supported by Ludwig, which shows the phrase used to introduce subjects under contention.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a point of argument" is grammatically correct and used to identify a specific issue being debated. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase functions as a noun phrase, helping to focus discussions. While its usage is relatively rare, it appears more frequently in news media, scientific discourse, and academic settings. When choosing related phrases, consider "a matter of contention" or "a subject of debate" for similar meanings. When employing the phrase, consider its formality and opt for more casual alternatives in informal contexts. "A point of argument" serves to clearly pinpoint the core of a disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of contention

Focuses on the disagreement or dispute rather than the specific argument itself.

a subject of debate

Emphasizes the discussion and varying opinions surrounding the topic.

an area of disagreement

Highlights the specific area where people hold opposing views.

a bone of contention

Implies a persistent and often bitter dispute.

a contested issue

Stresses that the issue is being actively challenged or disputed.

a moot point

Suggests that the issue is no longer relevant or practical.

a debatable topic

Similar to "a subject of debate" but can imply more uncertainty.

an open question

Indicates that the issue has not yet been resolved or definitively answered.

an arguable point

Highlights the fact that the point can be supported by reasons and evidence.

a disputed claim

Emphasizes that a statement or assertion is being challenged.

FAQs

How can I use "a point of argument" in a sentence?

You can use "a point of argument" to refer to a specific issue or topic that is being debated, as in "The budget proposal became "a point of argument" during the board meeting".

What are some alternatives to "a point of argument"?

You can use alternatives such as "a matter of contention", "a subject of debate", or "an area of disagreement" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a point of argument" formal or informal?

The phrase "a point of argument" leans towards the formal side. In more casual settings, simpler phrases like "something to argue about" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a point of argument" and "an argument"?

"A point of argument" refers to a specific issue being debated, while "an argument" can refer to the entire discussion or disagreement itself. For example, "The main "point of argument" was the budget, leading to a heated argument".