the argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific point or reasoning in a discussion, debate, or analysis. Example: "In the debate, the argument presented by the opposing team was particularly compelling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So goes the argument.

The New York Times

The argument is fragile.

The New Yorker

The argument sounds persuasive.

The New Yorker

This closed the argument".

The New York Times

After the argument - argument?

The New Yorker

"What's the argument?

The Guardian

The argument proved persuasive.

The Economist

He lost the argument.

The New York Times

Where's the argument?

Independent

THE argument sounds familiar.

The Economist

Thereafter, the argument rages.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the argument" to refer to a specific claim or reasoning; for general disagreements, consider "the debate" or "the dispute".

Common error

Avoid using "the argument" without a clear reference point; instead, specify whose argument it is or what it pertains to. For example, instead of "the argument is weak", specify "Smith's argument is weak".

Linguistic Context

The argument functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific point or line of reasoning being presented, as seen in the Ludwig examples where it is used to introduce, critique, or summarize a particular stance or claim. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the argument" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase, primarily functioning as a noun phrase to refer to a specific point or line of reasoning. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase. Its prevalence in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources indicates a generally formal to neutral register. When using "the argument", ensure clear context to avoid ambiguity, and consider alternatives like "the debate" or "the contention" for nuanced meaning. Be mindful of specifying whose argument is being referenced. Ludwig's examples illustrate diverse applications across various domains, reflecting its versatility in expressing reasoned viewpoints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the debate

Focuses more on a structured discussion between opposing viewpoints.

the dispute

Emphasizes the disagreement aspect of the argument.

the contention

Highlights a point that is asserted as part of an argument.

the thesis

Refers to the central claim or proposition being argued for.

the line of reasoning

Highlights the structured process of thought behind the argument.

the subject matter

Focuses on the topic or content being discussed in the argument.

the controversy

Emphasizes the public disagreement and debate surrounding an issue.

the position

Highlights the stance or viewpoint taken in the argument.

the case

Focuses on presenting evidence and justification for a particular viewpoint.

the rationale

Emphasizes the underlying reasons and justifications for the argument.

FAQs

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

You can use "the argument" to refer to a specific point or set of reasons in a discussion. For example: "The central claim of "the argument" is that climate change is primarily caused by human activity".

What's a good substitute for "the argument"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "the debate", "the contention", or "the line of reasoning". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the idea.

What is the difference between "the argument" and "the discussion"?

"The argument" typically implies a focused, reasoned presentation of a claim, often with the intent to persuade. "The discussion", on the other hand, suggests a more general exchange of ideas without necessarily implying disagreement or persuasion.

When is it appropriate to use "the argument" versus "an argument"?

Use "the argument" when referring to a specific, already-known argument. Use "an argument" when introducing a new argument or referring to one in a more general sense.