direction of argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "direction of argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the focus or approach taken in a debate, discussion, or written piece. Example: "The direction of argument in her essay clearly supports the need for environmental reform."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Michael Thompson's equally anti-psychologistic account of calculative rationality (Thompson 2008, Part II) reverses the direction of argument we have observed in Vogler.

SEP

The direction of argument notwithstanding, Thompson belongs to the group of theorists we are considering, in that the objective of the argument is to exploit an account of action in order to establish a thesis about calculative practical reasons, namely, that those reasons are not psychological states such as desires or intentions.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He is clear about what he thinks, and the direction of his argument is clear too, but he progresses patiently, through the accumulation of examples from a number of fields.

The Guardian - Books

Several opponents of making Plan B available over the counter have...not argued, exactly, but made strange and confusing gestures in the direction of an argument that doing so would in some way promote sexual abuse of minors.

The Economist

By asking questions and then supplying alternative answers, you control the direction of the argument.

WikiHow

by telling the reader the direction of your argument or analysis and how you will interpret the importance of the subject.

WikiHow

It serves as a road map by telling the reader the direction of your argument or analysis and how you will interpret the importance of the subject.

WikiHow

We identified the direction of ideological arguments as being either privatizing or socializing.

Health Research Policy and Systems

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 10.09am AEST01 09 Earlier this morning (8.54am) I pointed you in the direction of a brewing argument on asset recycling and privatisations.

The Guardian

But the case for black enlistment emerged just as Abraham Lincoln was making his first moves in the direction of Emancipation, and the argument grew stronger in the summer of 1863.

The New York Times - Books

Still, while the direction of the book's argument changed over the period of writing and research, what remained constant was the conviction that the question of Eliot's anti-semitism mattered.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "direction of argument" to signal a shift or evolution in the reasoning being presented, making it easier for the audience to follow complex ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "direction of argument" as a generic filler. Instead, provide specific details about the argument's progression, such as the key points, evidence, or assumptions that shape its course.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "direction of argument" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes the course, orientation, or progression of a debate or discussion. As Ludwig AI notes, it's a usable and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "direction of argument" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe the progression or focus of a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and appropriate for use in writing. While it is most prevalent in scientific, news, and media sources, it also appears in wiki contexts, demonstrating its versatility. Related phrases include ""line of reasoning"" and ""course of argument"". Remember to provide sufficient detail about the specific aspects of the argument when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drift of the argument

This alternative focuses on the general tendency or inclination of the argument as it progresses.

tenor of the argument

This alternative emphasizes the overall character, tone, or prevailing quality of the argument.

thrust of the argument

This alternative highlights the main point or force behind the argument.

trajectory of the argument

This alternative looks at the path and progression the argument takes from start to finish.

focus of the argument

This alternative emphasizes the central point or subject matter that the argument revolves around.

line of reasoning

This alternative describes the specific logical path or sequence of steps used in the argument.

course of the argument

This alternative looks at the way the argument develops and unfolds.

general argument

This alternative is less specific about the course or progression and focuses on the overall proposition.

purpose of the argument

This alternative emphasizes the intention or goal that the argument is trying to achieve.

argument's orientation

This alternative uses a synonym to “direction” but preserves the same sense and meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "direction of argument" in a sentence?

You can use "direction of argument" to describe the overall focus or progression of a discussion. For example: "The direction of argument in her essay clearly supports the need for environmental reform."

What's a good alternative to "direction of argument"?

Alternatives include "line of reasoning", "course of argument", or "focus of the argument" depending on the specific context.

Is it more correct to say "direction of argument" or "drift of argument"?

Both "direction of argument" and "drift of argument" are acceptable, but they have slightly different connotations. "Direction" suggests a more intentional and planned progression, while "drift" suggests a more gradual and less deliberate shift.

What does "direction of argument" mean in academic writing?

In academic writing, "direction of argument" refers to the primary focus or thesis that a piece of writing aims to prove. It helps the reader understand the central point and how the writer intends to support it.