an argument against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an argument against" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a point or set of points made to challenge or oppose an idea. For example, "I read an article that presented an argument against the theory of evolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nor an argument against any candidate.

Huffington Post

It is not an argument against restraints.

The New Yorker

Indeed, it's an argument against democracy.

The New Yorker

There is, however, an argument against.

The Economist

"But is that an argument against democracy?

The New York Times

Which is not an argument against virtue.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He makes an argument against online voting.

The Guardian

The poem is an argument against detachment.

The Guardian - Books

That is not necessarily an argument against rapid democratisation.

The Economist

Nor is it an argument against economic development.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This fact is used as an argument against mandatory vaccination.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an argument against", ensure that the argument is clearly articulated and supported with evidence. This strengthens your position and makes your reasoning more persuasive.

Common error

Avoid using "an argument against" without specifying the argument being made. Be explicit about the points of contention to prevent ambiguity and ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an argument against" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a reason or set of reasons to oppose or dispute a particular idea, action, or proposal. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Examples show it introducing counterpoints in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an argument against" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that serves to introduce opposition or disagreement with a particular idea or proposal. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively sets the stage for presenting counterpoints supported by evidence across various contexts, notably in news, science, and formal communications. When writing with this phrase, ensure clarity and specificity to avoid ambiguity. While alternatives like "a counterargument to" or "objections to" exist, "an argument against" remains a versatile and reliable choice for expressing critical perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a counterargument to

Replaces "argument" with "counterargument", emphasizing a direct response to a previous argument.

a case against

Substitutes "argument" with "case", suggesting a more formal and structured presentation of opposing evidence.

a rebuttal of

Replaces "argument" with "rebuttal", highlighting the act of disproving or contradicting a claim.

objections to

Focuses on raising "objections", implying specific points of disagreement or disapproval.

disagreement with

Emphasizes a lack of agreement, suggesting a difference in opinion or perspective.

opposition to

Highlights resistance or antagonism towards something.

challenge to

Suggests questioning the validity or accuracy of something.

critique of

Implies a detailed analysis pointing out flaws or shortcomings.

attack on

Conveys a strong and forceful opposition, often implying aggressive criticism.

denunciation of

Indicates a public and severe condemnation of something.

FAQs

How can I use "an argument against" in a sentence?

Use "an argument against" to introduce a reason or set of reasons why something is not a good idea or is incorrect. For example, "There is "an argument against" increasing taxes during a recession".

What are some alternatives to saying "an argument against"?

You can use alternatives like "a counterargument to", "a case against", or "objections to" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey. For example, the politician presented "objections to" the proposed legislation.

Is it better to say "an argument against" or "a justification against"?

"An argument against" is generally used to present reasons for opposing something. "Justification against" is less common; instead, consider using "a "justification for"" to support an idea or "defense against" to counter an attack.

What's the difference between "an argument against" and "an argument for"?

"An argument against" presents reasons to oppose something, while "an argument for" provides reasons to support something. They are antonyms used to express opposing viewpoints.