outline the argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outline the argument" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to summarize or present the main points of a discussion or debate. For example, "In this essay, I will outline the argument for renewable energy sources." Alternative expressions include "summarize the argument" and "sketch the argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

10.29am BST The Bank minutes take 11 lines to outline the argument for raising interest rates, and under nine lines to explain why not.

The Guardian - Business

3. In groups, closely read and outline the argument made by the reporter in the article "Wins Leave Kerry With 8-Month Challenge: Beat the Incumbent"; discuss the inferences, sources, and degree of balance the reporter brought to the article.

The New York Times

We might outline the argument like this.

SEP

Proof We here only outline the argument of Theorem 3.2 since it is similar to that of Theorem 3.1.

Advances in Difference Equations

For the purposes and readership of this journal, rather than for philosophers of science, we briefly outline the argument for the necessity of methodological naturalism.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The divide between lovers of the Palms and the Windows-based PocketPC handhelds is vast, and there is no room here to outline the arguments from both camps.

The New York Times - Travel

We present our major architectural design choices and outline the arguments that led to these choices.

Computer Physics Communications

There is a famous story of a union leader who met with FDR to outline the arguments for a progressive program.

Huffington Post

The first speaker of the opposing team will outline the arguments their entire team will make.

WikiHow

It was decided that Clinton would draft a statement outlining the argument for a canal; and then this document would be circulated as a petition around the state.

Forbes

This morning, a new Facebook group, "100,000 Strong Against Evan Bayh for VP," was launched to push back against Bayh, while the Booman Tribune blog outlines the argument today.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outline the argument" to introduce the different positions or sides involved in a discussion before delving into more specific details.

Common error

Avoid presenting an outline as a complete and detailed explanation. Clearly signal that you are only providing a summary of the main points.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outline the argument" serves as an instructional directive, commonly employed to request or offer a summary of the key points of a discussion or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and frequently used in various contexts. It suggests a structured overview rather than an exhaustive analysis.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outline the argument" is a grammatically correct and functional expression used to request or present a summary of the core points in a debate or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usage across a range of sources. It's commonly found in news, science, and academic writing, as highlighted by Ludwig's examples, and serves to provide clarity and structure. While similar phrases like "summarize the argument" or "present the argument's main points" exist, each carries subtle differences in emphasis. Remember to avoid mistaking the outline for a complete analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

summarize the argument

Focuses on providing a concise summary.

present the argument's main points

Emphasizes the act of presenting the key elements.

provide an overview of the argument

Focuses on giving a general understanding.

give a rundown of the argument

Uses a more informal term 'rundown'.

sketch the argument

Implies a less detailed and more preliminary overview.

explain the argument's essence

Highlights the core or fundamental aspect.

detail the argument's structure

Highlights the underlying framework and organization.

map out the argument

Suggests a visual or strategic presentation of the argument.

lay out the argument

Emphasizes a clear and organized presentation.

review the argument's key aspects

Suggests a critical assessment while summarizing.

FAQs

What does "outline the argument" mean?

To "outline the argument" means to present the main points and structure of a debate, discussion, or case in a simplified and organized manner.

How is "outline the argument" used in academic writing?

In academic writing, "outline the argument" is used to introduce the central claims and supporting evidence of a thesis or research paper, providing readers with a roadmap of what will be discussed.

What are some alternatives to "outline the argument"?

You can use alternatives like "summarize the argument", "present the argument's main points", or "give a rundown of the argument", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "outline the argument" and "detail the argument"?

"Outline the argument" provides a simplified overview, while "detail the argument" implies a more in-depth examination of the nuances and supporting evidence. They differ in the level of detail provided.