Definition of arguenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb argue contrast with its synonyms?

The words debate and discuss are common synonyms of argue. While all three words mean "to discourse about in order to reach conclusions or to convince," argue implies the offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held.

argued that the project would be too costly

When is it sensible to use debate instead of argue?

While in some cases nearly identical to argue, debate suggests formal or public argument between opposing parties; it may also apply to deliberation with oneself.

debated the merits of the amendment
I'm debating whether I should go

When might discuss be a better fit than argue?

The synonyms discuss and argue are sometimes interchangeable, but discuss implies a sifting of possibilities especially by presenting considerations pro and con.

discussed the need for a new highway

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of argue The defense wants prosecutors punished for speaking about the case outside the courtroom — and Robinson's lawyers are arguing that taking the potential death penalty off the table as a result would be an appropriate response. Michael Ruiz , Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026 In a filing earlier this month, attorneys for President and his two eldest sons argued that the court lacks authority to examine the settlement. Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 22 June 2026 Carmakers had many challenges Britain’s carmakers were early and outspoken opponents of Brexit, arguing that increased red tape surrounding shipments of parts and finished vehicles would damage an industry built on a network of interlinked factories in multiple European countries. Danica Kirka, Fortune, 22 June 2026 Critics argue that the removal deprived them of a capability that had been tacitly promised. Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for argue
Recent Examples of Synonyms for argue
Verb
  • The report generally contends that a single-payer system would, by eliminating the paperwork and other aspects of the current system, be the most efficient from a cost/benefit basis.
    Dan Walters, Mercury News, 23 June 2026
  • Experts contended that the progressive candidates could split the vote, opening the door for McAdams to win.
    Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • King bickered with fans on social media.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026
  • But Tilly and Gershon playfully bickered onstage as the former remembered things slightly differently, with Tilly saying the problem had more to do with a shot of her hand on Gershon's crotch that was deemed too realistic.
    Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • The mayor, having failed to convince Albany to raise other taxes that matter emotionally to his base, had to make a meager win seem meaningful.
    Bradley Tusk, New York Daily News, 20 June 2026
  • Just a few months ago, when more than 60 Labour MPs signed an open letter calling for a social media ban for under-16s, Keir Starmer wasn’t convinced.
    The Week UK, TheWeek, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • In discussing the matter, Hahn also called for the county to look into establishing an emergency stockpile of air purifiers and other critical supplies to better prepare for future disasters.
    Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
  • Without discussing too much in detail, councilmembers raised several potential alternatives during the meeting, including parking garage subsidies, downtown employee waivers and a comprehensive citywide review of parking programs.
    Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • The destroyer commissioned Tuesday, the Choe Hyon, is expected to have anti-ship and land-attack missile capabilities, although neither can be confirmed to date, analysts said.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
  • Immigration attorney Morella Aguado, who is not involved in Avila's case, confirmed one of her clients was also transferred out of Krome.
    Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • Vitello seemed to understand Devers’ reasoning for wanting to stay in the game but also knew that Devers was battling some leg soreness.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026
  • Plus, Wizards officials reason that Young, who will turn 28 years old in September, will remain in his prime years through the end of his contract.
    Josh Robbins, New York Times, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Starmer has vowed to fight any leadership contest, deepening the sense of crisis within the Labour Party.
    Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 20 June 2026
  • Police said the bail agent and driver fought, and the agent fired one round, with the bullet striking the suspect in the arm.
    Hannah McIlree, CBS News, 19 June 2026
Verb
  • After receiving news that Ruben has lost his appeal and seems resigned to his fate, Anna naturally springs into action in a last-ditch effort to persuade the governor of his innocence.
    Scott Tobias, Vulture, 19 June 2026
  • For a service built on impulse viewing, telco deals buy instant reach and built-in billing in price-sensitive markets where persuading users to sign up directly can be hard.
    Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 18 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Argue.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/argue. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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