a vigorous argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vigorous argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong, forceful, or passionate discussion or debate on a particular topic. Example: "During the meeting, there was a vigorous argument about the proposed changes to the policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

However, the entire novel becomes a vigorous argument against such a certainty.

The Guardian - Books

"Ms. Pelosi and I expect we'll have a vigorous argument over that issue," Mr. Boehner said.

The New York Times

This collection thus begins, in its first chapter, with a vigorous argument that direct perceptual simulation indeed plays a pervasive and fundamental role in all language comprehension.

Stanford University

Wolff says his team are "not dominant", even though the basic stats are queuing up to give him a vigorous argument.

The Guardian - Sport

The case presents to prosecutors a potential legal landmine, requiring them to balance a vigorous argument for conviction with preserving the constitutional rights of Miller against self-incrimination.

The Guardian

In pressing his case in the State of the Union address on Tuesday, White House officials said, Mr. Bush plans to make a vigorous argument against Saddam Hussein.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Their argument excited a vigorous debate among philosophers, both supporters and detractors.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"The case was heard on Monday and it was a pretty vigorous argument with a lot of questions.

Vice

Nicole A. Saharsky, a lawyer for the federal government, made a more vigorous argument on Sergeant Chafin's behalf.

The New York Times

Take Nadine Gordimer, who has contributed the preface to a new edition of Christopher Hitchens's book, The Parthenon Marbles, a typically vigorous argument in favour of repatriation first published in 1987.

The Guardian - Arts

This is a mathematically vigorous argument.

Geoscience Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a vigorous argument" to convey a sense of energy and conviction in a debate or discussion. It is suitable when you want to emphasize not only the disagreement but also the active and forceful presentation of differing viewpoints.

Common error

While "vigorous" adds emphasis, avoid using "a vigorous argument" in very casual or informal settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a strong argument" or "a heated debate" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vigorous argument" functions as a noun phrase, with "vigorous" modifying the noun "argument". It describes the nature of the argument as energetic, forceful, and active. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vigorous argument" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a strong, energetic, and forceful debate or disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent use in news, academic, and professional contexts. While suitable for formal settings, it may be less appropriate in casual conversations where simpler alternatives might be preferable. Consider using synonyms like "a heated debate" or "a robust discussion" depending on the specific context and desired tone. This phrase effectively conveys the intensity and active nature of a debate, highlighting the strong expression of differing viewpoints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heated debate

Replaces "vigorous" with "heated", indicating a more emotionally charged argument.

a robust discussion

Substitutes "vigorous" with "robust", suggesting a strong and healthy exchange of ideas.

a spirited debate

Uses "spirited" instead of "vigorous", emphasizing the enthusiasm and energy of the argument.

an intense dispute

Replaces "vigorous" with "intense" and "argument" with "dispute", indicating a more serious and potentially confrontational disagreement.

a forceful contention

Substitutes "vigorous" with "forceful" and "argument" with "contention", highlighting the strength and conviction behind the claim.

a lively exchange

Uses "lively exchange" to describe a dynamic and engaging argument.

a strong disagreement

Replaces "vigorous" with "strong" and "argument" with "disagreement", presenting a more straightforward and less nuanced alternative.

an energetic dispute

Combines "energetic" with "dispute" to portray the active and lively nature of the argument.

a passionate defense

Shifts the focus to defending a point with zeal; less about arguing and more about defending.

a dynamic clash

Replaces argument with a clash suggesting more of a direct conflict of opinions.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a vigorous argument"?

You can use alternatives like "a heated debate", "a robust discussion", or "a spirited debate" depending on the context.

How to use "a vigorous argument" in a sentence?

You can use "a vigorous argument" to describe a strong, forceful, or passionate discussion or debate on a particular topic. For example: "During the meeting, there was a vigorous argument about the proposed changes to the policy."

Which is correct, "a vigorous argument" or "an vigorous argument"?

"A vigorous argument" is correct. Since "vigorous" begins with a consonant sound, the indefinite article "a" is used instead of "an".

What's the difference between "a vigorous argument" and "a strong argument"?

"A vigorous argument" suggests an energetic and forceful debate, while "a strong argument" simply implies that the argument is well-supported and convincing. "Vigorous" emphasizes the energy and intensity of the debate, whereas "strong" highlights its validity.