in argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "in argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a discussion or dispute, usually between two or more people, in which the different sides present reasons and evidence to support their point of view. For example: "After an hour of in-argument, we decided to accept their offer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He wants audiences to detect the drama in argument as well as action.

The Guardian

His voice rose as if in argument, then trailed off.

The New Yorker

As he often does in argument, he quoted his friend.

The Guardian

Said always longed for elegance and sophistication in argument.

The Guardian - Books

"He was always interested in argument and debate and controversy.

The Guardian - Books

In argument, he credits his opponents with their best next moves, like a chess player.

The Economist

The truth was that the two terms could never be reconciled in argument.

The New Yorker

Despite ingenuity in argument and resourcefulness of language, the section is vitiated by inconsistencies.

The Economist

Smart engagement means engaging in argument at public events, where appropriate and at the right level.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The crowding-in argument is the right one for current economic conditions.

The New York Times

The just-in argument is that this would be administratively much easier.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in argument", ensure the context clearly indicates a situation involving opposing viewpoints being discussed or debated. For clarity, specify the subject or nature of the argument.

Common error

Avoid using "in argument" when simply referring to a conversation or discussion without a clear element of disagreement or opposition. Using phrases like "in discussion" or "during conversation" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in argument" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates the setting, manner, or state in which an action occurs, often describing someone's involvement or behavior during a discussion or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the examples show it used to specify the context of an action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in argument" functions as a prepositional phrase, most often employed to specify the context in which an action or characteristic is displayed, relating to debates or discussions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is particularly common in News & Media and Science, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While grammatically sound, it is important to use it when there's a clear element of disagreement and not simply a conversation. Similar alternatives include "during the dispute" and "engaged in debate". Overall, "in argument" is a versatile phrase, widely used in reputable sources and a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

engaged in debate

Stresses the active participation in a formal discussion.

while debating

Highlights the process of presenting different sides of an issue.

engaged in contention

Similar to 'engaged in debate', but suggests a stronger level of disagreement.

during the dispute

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the argument, specifying when something occurs.

during the contention

Like 'during the dispute', but suggests a more intense level of disagreement.

amidst the debate

Highlights the surrounding context of the discussion, suggesting a broader public conversation.

in the discussion

General term referring to being part of a conversation.

while contending

Emphasizes the act of actively competing or disagreeing.

amidst the altercation

Conveys a more heated and confrontational disagreement.

during the quarrel

Indicates a more personal and emotional disagreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "in argument" to describe someone's behavior or actions during a discussion where there are differing viewpoints. For example, "He is tenacious "in argument", always defending his position with well-reasoned points".

What phrases are similar to "in argument"?

Alternatives to "in argument" include phrases such as "amidst the debate", "engaged in debate", or "during the dispute", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "during argument" instead of "in argument"?

While "during argument" isn't grammatically incorrect, ""in argument"" is more common and idiomatic when referring to someone's behavior or the state of being engaged in a dispute. "During the argument" usually refers to a specific time within a debate.

What's the difference between "in argument" and "in a dispute"?

"In argument" typically refers to the act of participating in a discussion with differing viewpoints, focusing on the interaction itself. "In a dispute" emphasizes the state of disagreement or conflict. So, you might be ""in argument"" about a topic that leads to being "in a dispute".