argue the reverse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "argue the reverse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a point of view that contradicts a previously stated argument or position. Example: "While many believe that technology isolates us, I would argue the reverse, suggesting that it actually fosters deeper connections."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Yet one can actually argue the reverse: that a prime reason why many at Westminster appear inept in regard to nationalist and identity issues is that they operate in a city that has long been quintessentially cosmopolitan.

The Guardian

You can't argue the reverse, since new adults are always competing with you.

TechCrunch

In terms of Kanji's point re the investment gap, one could also argue the reverse in that European funded ventures are more capital efficient given the more modest investment amounts typically secured.

TechCrunch

DST may help in depression by causing individuals to rise earlier, but some argue the reverse.

Wikipedia

Some U.S. and Israeli politicians argue the reverse case -- that Iran needs the sanctions relief badly enough that the failure of the talks, and more sanctions, would push Tehran to offer more concessions over its nuclear program, and ultimately lead to a better deal.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The Lions could have argued the reverse.

The New York Times - Sports

The play argues the reverse of "ignorance is bliss".

The New York Times

However, in a separate lawsuit in Pennsylvania, Medicare officials argued the reverse.

The New York Times

In fact our RAB calculations occupy the middle ground, with some economists arguing the reverse of this report – that we have over-estimated cost per student.

The Guardian

Bachelet argues passionately that this is precisely what her government has been doing, though Sebastián Piñera, who will doubtless run for president in 2010, just as passionately argues the reverse.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some Democrats agreed, while opponents of a military strike against Iraq argued the reverse, saying the administration's muted reaction to North Korea, and its announcement that it wanted to solve the problem peacefully, should also apply to Baghdad.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "argue the reverse", ensure that the context clearly establishes the initial argument. This provides a strong foundation for the contrasting perspective you are introducing.

Common error

Avoid using "argue the reverse" when the situation involves nuance or partial disagreement. This phrase is most effective when presenting a complete, diametrical opposition, not a slight modification or exception to the original statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "argue the reverse" functions as a discourse marker used to introduce a contradictory viewpoint or counter-argument. It signifies a direct opposition to a previously stated idea. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "argue the reverse" is a valid and useful construction in English for introducing a counter-argument, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to indicate a direct opposition to a previously stated idea. While not exceedingly common, occurring with "Uncommon" frequency, it is found in reputable sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist. Its usage is versatile, fitting within neutral to formal registers and serving the purpose of refuting or challenging prior assertions. For similar expressions, consider alternatives like "assert the opposite" or "contend the contrary".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assert the opposite

Focuses on stating a contrary position with conviction.

contend the contrary

Highlights a strong disagreement and presentation of opposing evidence.

maintain the inverse

Emphasizes upholding a position that is the direct opposite of another.

claim the reverse is true

Directly states that the opposite situation is accurate or factual.

posit the antithesis

Suggests presenting a directly contrasting argument or idea.

take the opposing view

Describes adopting a stance that is in direct opposition to another.

advance a counter-argument

Focuses on presenting an argument designed to refute a previous claim.

dispute the assertion

Indicates challenging the validity or truth of a statement.

rebut the claim

Highlights the act of disproving or countering a specific assertion.

challenge the premise

Emphasizes questioning the underlying assumptions of an argument.

FAQs

How can I use "argue the reverse" in a sentence?

You can use "argue the reverse" to introduce a counter-argument. For example, "While many believe that technology isolates us, I would "argue the reverse", suggesting that it actually fosters deeper connections."

What's a simple way to explain what "argue the reverse" means?

To "argue the reverse" means to present a viewpoint that is directly opposite to a previously stated opinion or claim. It's about showing that what someone believes to be true is, in fact, not true at all.

Are there more formal alternatives to "argue the reverse"?

Yes, you could use more formal phrases such as "assert the opposite" or "contend the contrary", which convey a similar meaning but with a more academic tone.

When is it appropriate to use "argue the reverse" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "argue the reverse" when you have a strong, opposing viewpoint to present and you want to clearly signal that you are directly contradicting a previous statement. This phrase is most effective when the contrast is stark and unambiguous.