engage in arguments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "engage in arguments" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing participation in debates or disputes, whether in a formal or informal context. Example: "During the meeting, it was clear that some team members were eager to engage in arguments about the proposed changes to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Beijing does not engage in arguments.

The New York Times

To engage in arguments about the inclusions & omissions of Geldzahler's extravaganza is to fall into a trap prepared in advance in order to provide meat for "Henry's" public relations.

The New Yorker

"I try not to engage in arguments with my wife," Mr. Sotelo said, looking across at her. "When we talk about this, we both know what's going to happen.

The New York Times

To engage in arguments about the inclusions & omissions of Geldzahler's extravaganza is to fall into a trap prepared in advance in order to provide meat for "Henry's" public relations..

The New Yorker

Most of the public will not engage in arguments about the size of the state, but public sector workers (who did not cause the current crisis) will feel its effects.

The Guardian - Opinion

This sometimes tempts the participants to engage in arguments that do not necessarily deal with issues relevant from the point of view of the institutional goals of the committee.

Journal of Pragmatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

To consider the Master of Toledo is still and always to engage in argument — with oneself, as likely as not.

The New Yorker

But to take one example, the Global Peace and Unity conference attracts around fifty thousand British Muslims each year and is an important opportunity to engage in argument – and so Andrew Stunell, the Government's Communities Minister did this year.

The Economist

"They have no modesty; they are bold enough to teach, to engage in argument, to enact exorcisms, to undertake cures, and, it may be, even to baptize!" By the year 200, Christian feminism was clearly brought to an end by the text known in the New Testament as Paul's First Epistle to Timothy: "Let a woman learn in silence with all submissiveness.

The New Yorker

You cannot engage in argument unless you rely on PNC.

SEP

Given the fragmentary nature of the evidence, it is unclear whether these ascetic Pythagoreans who engage in argument are the same as the Pythagorists in the other comedies, who are characterized by their filth and eccentric appearance.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to discuss formal debates or disagreements use the expression "engage in arguments". It clearly conveys active participation.

Common error

While "engage in arguments" is correct, consider whether a simpler phrase like "argue" or "debate" might be more appropriate, especially in informal contexts. Overly formal language can sometimes sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "engage in arguments" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of participating in a debate or dispute. Ludwig shows several examples where it is used to describe active involvement in discussions, whether formal or informal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "engage in arguments" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe active participation in debates or disputes. According to Ludwig, it's appropriate in various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions, though simpler alternatives like "argue" might be preferred in more casual settings. While the phrase is versatile, it's wise to consider the context and choose the wording that best fits the tone and formality level. Use "engage in arguments" when you mean to stress active participation in a disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

participate in disputes

Replaces "engage" with "participate" and "arguments" with "disputes", focusing on the act of taking part in disagreements.

take part in debates

Replaces "engage" with "take part" and "arguments" with "debates", highlighting active involvement in formal discussions.

get involved in conflicts

Replaces "engage" with "get involved" and "arguments" with "conflicts", emphasizing the involvement in adversarial situations.

enter into disagreements

Replaces "engage" with "enter into" and "arguments" with "disagreements", conveying the initiation of conflicting opinions.

be drawn into altercations

Replaces "engage" with "be drawn into" and "arguments" with "altercations", suggesting an unwilling or gradual involvement in heated disputes.

delve into controversies

Replaces "engage" with "delve into" and "arguments" with "controversies", indicating an in-depth exploration of contentious subjects.

partake in quarrels

Replaces "engage" with "partake in" and "arguments" with "quarrels", signifying a share or involvement in heated disagreements.

indulge in bickerings

Replaces "engage" with "indulge in" and "arguments" with "bickerings", suggesting a somewhat excessive or unrestrained involvement in petty disputes.

embroil oneself in disputes

Replaces "engage" with "embroil oneself in" and "arguments" with "disputes", implying becoming deeply entangled in disagreements.

wrestle with contradictions

Replaces "engage" with "wrestle with" and "arguments" with "contradictions", portraying a struggle with conflicting ideas or statements.

FAQs

What does "engage in arguments" mean?

The phrase "engage in arguments" means to actively participate in discussions or debates where differing opinions or viewpoints are presented and defended. It suggests a level of involvement beyond simply listening or observing.

How can I use "engage in arguments" in a sentence?

You might say, "The politicians frequently "engage in arguments" over economic policy" or "It's important to "engage in arguments" with respect and an open mind."

What are some alternatives to "engage in arguments"?

Alternatives include "participate in disputes", "take part in debates", or simply "argue" or "debate", depending on the context and level of formality you want to convey.

Is "engage in arguments" formal or informal?

"Engage in arguments" sits in a neutral register. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but in very casual settings, simpler words like "argue" might be preferred.