able to argue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to argue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's capability or skill in presenting a case or discussing a topic effectively. Example: "She is able to argue her point convincingly during debates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And you need to be able to argue both sides.

The New Yorker

I have to be able to argue the other side as well as Scalia does.

The New Yorker

Mr Blair wants to be able to argue that FMD is under control.

The Economist

"We are the first species able to argue about what intelligence is.

The New Yorker

"Academically, being able to argue a point effectively and explain yourself verbally is important.

The Guardian

Without help to correct the initial mistakes, I wouldn't have been able to argue for release.

The Guardian

Others will go on speaking and you won't be able to argue back".

The Guardian - Opinion

Barclay lawyers were able to argue they had not breached the agreement.

The Guardian

This was where Jones was able to argue about lines in the script.

The Guardian - Film

He was a courteous, humorous and self-deprecating man, equally able to argue and to listen.

The Guardian

He prides himself on being able to argue all sides, leaving the audience to judge.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to argue", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is arguing about. Providing specifics strengthens the sentence.

Common error

Avoid using "able to argue" in vague contexts where the subject of the argument is unclear. Always specify the topic to prevent ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He is able to argue", specify "He is able to argue the merits of the new policy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to argue" functions as a verb phrase indicating the capacity or capability of someone or something to present arguments or engage in debate. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "able to argue" is a versatile verb phrase that conveys the capacity to present arguments or engage in debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. It finds common application in news, science, and formal business contexts. For effective usage, ensure the context clearly indicates the subject of the argument to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "capable of arguing" or "qualified to argue" can be used to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and effectively incorporate "able to argue" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of arguing

Replaces "able" with its direct synonym "capable", maintaining identical meaning.

competent to argue

Substitutes "able" with "competent", implying a level of skill and qualification.

has the capacity to argue

Rephrases "able to" as "has the capacity to", focusing on inherent ability.

in a position to argue

Emphasizes the situational readiness or opportunity to argue.

qualified to argue

Highlights the possession of necessary qualifications or expertise to argue effectively.

equipped to argue

Suggests having the necessary resources or preparation to argue.

prepared to argue

Highlights the readiness and willingness to present an argument.

in a state to argue

Focuses on the current condition or state of being that allows one to argue.

empowered to argue

Indicates that someone has been given the authority or power to argue.

has what it takes to argue

Uses an idiomatic expression to indicate the necessary qualities or skills for arguing.

FAQs

How can I use "able to argue" in a sentence?

You can use "able to argue" to describe someone's capacity or skill in presenting a case or debating a topic. For example: "She is "able to argue" her point convincingly.".

What are some alternatives to "able to argue"?

Some alternatives include "capable of arguing", "competent to argue", or "qualified to argue", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "ability to argue" instead of "able to argue"?

Yes, "ability to argue" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to the skill or capacity to argue. "Able to argue" is a verb phrase describing the state of being capable of arguing. For example: "Her "ability to argue" is impressive", versus "She is "able to argue" effectively".

What's the difference between "able to argue" and "likely to argue"?

"Able to argue" describes the capability or skill to present an argument, while "likely to argue" suggests a tendency or probability of engaging in arguments. One refers to competence, the other to behavior.