an intense argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an intense argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a heated or passionate discussion or dispute between individuals. Example: "During the meeting, there was an intense argument about the proposed budget cuts that lasted for over an hour."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

In this scene, Cranston, playing the top scientist at a Tokyo nuclear facility, was having an intense argument that's interrupted by a seismic jolt.

The New Yorker

This time could be very different, since there would be an intense argument about Europe, and the parties would face serious questions about their policies.

The Guardian - Opinion

Speaking to The Evening Standard, he dismissed the restaurant incident as "a playful tiff" stemming from "an intense argument about the children" (they have none together, but several from previous marriages).

The New York Times

On Tuesday night, when Johnson made his debut with the Yankees, at first base, and slapped two hits in four at-bats, Bowa was ejected from his second straight game after an intense argument with an umpire.

The New York Times - Sports

Martin Amis has described the process of befriending a writer (in his case, Saul Bellow), in terms of the stages in reading his work: "You... have a conversation (you have an intense argument) with Herzog, with Henderson, with Humboldt, frowning, nodding, withholding, qualifying, objecting, conceding - and smiling, smiling first with reluctant admiration, then smiling with unreluctant admiration".

The Guardian - Books

Appearing as divided as the rest of the country over Florida's disputed presidential votes, the United States Supreme Court grilled the lawyers for both sides today in an intense argument session that ended in uncertainty over how -- or whether -- the justices would decide Gov. George W. Bush's appeal of the Florida Supreme Court's extension of the state's vote-counting deadline.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

One of the crew members started insisting we stay on the boat overnight, which sparked a intense argument in Russian, which was somehow inexplicably turned on us.

Vice

This is my very very very favorite song!" Thus began what would turn out to be a long, intense argument over the virtues and limits of contemporary pop music -- not to mention the first significant generational rift between my daughter and me.

The New York Times - Arts

They looked peculiar, particularly because it seemed like they were in the midst of a very intense argument.

Vice

There are several possible sources for the missing genes, and this is a subject of intense argument and ongoing research.

Application of Clinical Genetics

Its account of black movements, against the historical background of real people, is harshly realistic; the intense argument in a house in Soweto has the sharp detail of a documentary.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an intense argument" when you want to emphasize the high level of emotion, energy, and disagreement involved in a discussion or dispute. It is appropriate for describing situations ranging from personal conflicts to political debates.

Common error

While "intense" adds emphasis, avoid using too many intensifiers in the same sentence or paragraph. Overdoing it can weaken your writing and make it sound melodramatic. Balance intense language with clear and precise details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an intense argument" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "intense" modifies the noun "argument". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes a particular type of discussion or disagreement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

23%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an intense argument" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a heated or passionate disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, wiki, and academic writing. The phrase effectively conveys the significance and emotional weight of a dispute. While there are several alternatives, such as "a heated debate" or "a fierce dispute", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using this phrase, be mindful of overusing intensifiers and ensure your writing remains clear and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a heated debate

Focuses on the passionate and potentially angry nature of the discussion.

a fierce dispute

Highlights the strong disagreement and potential conflict involved.

a vehement disagreement

Emphasizes the strength and intensity of opposing views.

a heated exchange

Focuses on the back-and-forth nature of the argument and its passionate tone.

a bitter quarrel

Suggests a more personal and resentful argument.

a passionate debate

Highlights the strong feelings and engagement of participants.

a strong disagreement

Indicates a notable difference in opinion, potentially less heated.

a serious contention

Implies a more formal and significant disagreement.

a vigorous discussion

Emphasizes the energy and engagement in the debate.

a major conflict

Highlights the significance and potential consequences of the argument.

FAQs

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

You can use "an intense argument" to describe a heated or passionate discussion. For example, "During the meeting, there was "an intense argument" about the proposed budget cuts".

What are some alternatives to "an intense argument"?

You can use alternatives like "a heated debate", "a fierce dispute", or "a vehement disagreement" depending on the specific context.

Is it okay to use "an intense argument" in formal writing?

Yes, "an intense argument" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you need to convey the seriousness or passion involved in a dispute. However, consider the specific tone and audience of your writing.

What's the difference between "an intense argument" and "a simple disagreement"?

"An intense argument" suggests a high level of emotion, energy, and conflict, while "a simple disagreement" implies a mild difference of opinion with little to no emotional involvement.