advance the argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'advance the argument' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are referring to making progress in a discussion or debate. For example, "I signaled to my opponent that I was ready to advance the argument during our debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Meanwhile, researchers advance the argument that the current United Nations structure for negotiations obstructs progress.

The New York Times

Lord Irvine's tactical retreat is likely to advance the argument for more fundamental reform.

The Economist

We also give students a series of statements to see if they can drag in the ones that actually advance the argument.

The Washington Post

This relatively early ad didn't advance the argument but it was another drop of water in the slow erosion of Romney's credibility that he's still trying to rebuild.

The Guardian - Opinion

It won't be surprising if they deploy their big data weapons to advance the argument that the traditional educational system must be completely overhauled.

The Guardian - Opinion

So far he hasn't said anything particularly surprising, although I haven't heard him advance the argument that modular exams are "unfair" in quite this way before.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

15 We must accordingly inquire whether these respondents had standing to advance the arguments that the Court of Appeals considered decisive.

Cornell University

And that only advances the argument, and prize.

The New Yorker

Officials privately advanced the argument that opposition to Cathleen P. Black, the candidate, was grounded in sexism.

The New York Times

But against the Protestant slogan of sola Scriptura ("Scripture alone"), itself subject to misinterpretation, the Roman Catholic Church advanced the argument that the church existed before the New Testament.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This pool of scientific advances, the argument goes, has pretty much run dry, with little replenishment in recent years, and so American innovation has run out of fuel.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing academic or persuasive essays, ensure each paragraph contributes to "advance the argument" by providing new evidence, analysis, or insights.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "advance the argument" if other verbs or phrases could offer more precision and impact. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "advance the argument" functions as a verb phrase, where 'advance' acts as a transitive verb taking 'the argument' as its direct object. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from political discourse to scientific discussions, indicating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

32%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "advance the argument" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that means to further develop or strengthen a particular point of view. It is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts, but is most frequently seen in news, academic and scientific sources. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this phrase and its range of application. Alternative phrases such as "bolster the argument" or "support the argument" can be used to achieve the same goal with slightly altered connotations. Remember to use the phrase in appropriate, formal contexts and to vary language to maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bolster the argument

Replaces 'advance' with 'bolster', focusing on strengthening the existing argument rather than moving it forward.

support the argument

Emphasizes providing evidence or justification for the argument.

further the argument

Similar to 'advance', but with a stronger emphasis on promoting its development.

promote the argument

Focuses on advocating for the argument and increasing its visibility.

develop the argument

Highlights the act of elaborating and expanding on the argument.

present the argument

Focuses on the act of introducing or showcasing the argument.

build upon the argument

Emphasizes the idea of incrementally adding to and improving the argument.

substantiate the argument

Highlights proving the argument with facts and evidence.

champion the argument

Implies active and enthusiastic defense of the argument.

push the argument forward

Replaces 'advance' with a more forceful and directional phrase.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "advance the argument" in a sentence?

Use "advance the argument" when you want to show that a specific point or piece of evidence helps to further develop or strengthen a particular idea or stance. For example, "Presenting this new data will help us "advance the argument" that climate change is accelerating".

What are some alternatives to "advance the argument" that I can use in my writing?

You can use alternatives like "bolster the argument", "support the argument", or "further the argument" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "advance the argument"?

The phrase "advance the argument" is appropriate in academic, professional, and formal settings where you want to convey the progress or strengthening of a particular viewpoint. It is less common in informal conversation.

What is the difference between "advance the argument" and "make the argument"?

"Make the argument" refers to initially stating or presenting an argument, while "advance the argument" implies building upon an existing argument by providing more evidence or detail. "Make the argument" establishes the initial position while "advance the argument" strengthens and promotes it.