provide an argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provide an argument" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used when asking someone to present a logical explanation or justification for their stance or claim. For example: - "In your essay, you need to provide strong arguments to support your thesis statement." - "The politician failed to provide a convincing argument for their proposed policy change." - "During the debate, each side will have the opportunity to provide arguments to support their position."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

This could provide an argument for regulators to let the merger through.

The New York Times

And, if so, do the lessons of the Spanish civil war provide an argument for intervening in Syria?

The New York Times

If the referendum goes ahead, it will provide an argument for the region joining Russia as happened in Crimea in March.

The Guardian

Now that Iran has dashed hopes that it would halt uranium enrichment, the apparent failure of negotiations may provide an argument for war.

The New York Times

The recent earthquakes provide an argument for critics who say that fracking, as the technique has become known, blights the landscape and risks polluting water supplies.

The New York Times

Functioning as a kind of impromptu public laboratory, play streets can demonstrate just how effective such spaces can be, and provide an argument for making such outlets — or something like them — permanent.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

"And the Greek situation has provided an argument to delay any moves".

The New York Times

Merit, far from standing in the way of the pursuit of diversity, provides an argument for it.

The Guardian

One may simply adopt naturalism without providing an argument or motivation for it.

SEP

And in this way it provides an argument for spacetime curvature.

SEP

This is one of the greatest virtues of LOTH, hence provides an argument for it.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide an argument", ensure that the argument is well-supported with evidence and logical reasoning. A weak argument can undermine your position.

Common error

Avoid presenting your argument as definitive proof when it is only a plausible explanation. Use qualifying language to indicate the degree of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide an argument" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of presenting a reasoned case or justification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

29%

Formal & Business

23%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "provide an argument" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression that signifies presenting reasoning or evidence to support a claim. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is employed across various contexts, including science, news, and formal writing, with the aim of persuading, explaining, or justifying a particular viewpoint. When using this phrase, focus on ensuring that your argument is well-supported, clear, and logically sound. Consider alternative phrases like "present a rationale" or "offer a justification" to add nuance to your writing. Understanding the potential pitfalls, such as overstating the strength of your argument, can further enhance your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

construct an argument

This alternative is a more active and deliberate form of "provide an argument".

offer a justification

This alternative focuses on defending a position or action.

present a rationale

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the logical basis of the reasoning.

put forward a case

This alternative suggests a persuasive attempt to convince someone.

formulate a defense

This alternative focuses on creating a structured explanation of supporting ideas.

develop a line of reasoning

This alternative emphasizes the process of constructing a logical argument.

advance a thesis

This alternative is specific to academic or scholarly contexts, suggesting a formal proposition is being presented.

furnish a reason

This alternative is slightly more formal, implying a supply of reasoning.

submit a claim

This alternative focuses on asserting something as a fact.

render an explanation

This alternative indicates that someone is offering a reason to comprehend something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "provide an argument" is used to describe the act of offering reasons or evidence in support of a claim or position. For example, "The lawyer had to provide an argument for his client's innocence".

What can I say instead of "provide an argument"?

You can use alternatives like "present a rationale", "offer a justification", or "construct an argument" depending on the context.

Is it better to "provide an argument" or "make an argument"?

Both "provide an argument" and "make an argument" are acceptable. "Make an argument" is slightly more common and general, while "provide an argument" emphasizes the giving of reasons or evidence.

What makes an argument effective when you "provide an argument"?

An effective argument is clear, well-supported by evidence, logically sound, and relevant to the issue at hand. It should also anticipate and address potential counterarguments.