have an argument to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have an argument to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has a point of contention or a reason to dispute something. Example: "I have an argument to present regarding the effectiveness of the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

They have an argument to make.

The New Yorker

His motives might be called into question, but he would at least have an argument to make.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the hearing the judge says, "Maybe you have an argument to take to the legislature to expand justifiable homicide under the law".

The New York Times - Arts

While Tomas Rosicky and Jack Wilshere may have an argument to start in Wenger's best XI this team was about the finest he can send out.

The Guardian - Sport

If he leaves office more than 30 days before the Legislature convenes, the incoming senators won't even have an argument to make, because the current Senate will have to convene and choose.

The New York Times

If this is in a certain area not the case, then we have an argument to take measures to lower or to increase the response time".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"People make their decisions independently, so it would only matter if I had an argument to make that people would listen to," he said.

The New York Times

That was just a stunt, of course, but Lillian had an argument to make, which she put forward in "The Psychology of Management," published in 1914: "The emphasis in successful management lies on the man, not on the work".

The New Yorker

She also has an argument to settle with Mitsuomi Takayanagi.

Wikipedia

"I had an argument to make that was not a conservative, anti-regulation argument, and that was unusual," Davis said.

Huffington Post

If you have an argument, try not to scream and yell, but calm down and take a break if necessary.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger verbs like 'present' or 'defend' after "have an argument to" to add more weight to your statement.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "have an argument to" can sound less impactful in formal writing. Opt for more assertive phrases like "present a case" or "demonstrate" for a stronger tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have an argument to" functions as a verb phrase indicating the possession of a rationale or justification. Ludwig AI examples show its use in expressing the intention to present or defend a particular viewpoint.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have an argument to" is a versatile phrase used to express the possession of a rationale or justification. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts, particularly within News & Media. To enhance your writing, consider substituting it with alternatives like "possess a reason to" or "have a case to make" for nuanced expression. Keep in mind that while the phrase is generally acceptable, more assertive options might be preferred in highly formal settings. Overall, it’s a reliable and widely understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a case to make

Focuses on presenting a persuasive argument.

possess a reason to

Replaces "argument" with "reason", focusing on the underlying justification.

have a justification for

Highlights the act of providing a reason for something.

have a rationale for

Similar to "justification", but slightly more formal.

have a basis for

Emphasizes the foundation upon which an argument rests.

have grounds to

Similar to "basis", but implies a more formal or legal foundation.

have a point to make

Highlights the importance of the argument being presented.

have something to argue

A more direct and less formal way of expressing the idea.

have a position to defend

Emphasizes the defensive aspect of having an argument.

have a thesis to present

Implies a more formal, academic argument.

FAQs

How can I use "have an argument to" in a sentence?

You can use "have an argument to" to indicate that someone possesses a justification or reason for a particular viewpoint or action. For example: "The lawyer will "have an argument to" present in court".

What are some alternatives to "have an argument to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "possess a reason to", "have a justification for", or "have a case to make", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "have an argument to"?

It is appropriate to use "have an argument to" in both formal and informal contexts when you want to express that someone has a valid reason or point to argue. It's especially useful when introducing a viewpoint or defending a position.

Is "have an argument to" formal or informal?

The phrase "have an argument to" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, consider using more assertive alternatives such as "present a case" or "demonstrate".