Argumentative: meaning, definitions and examples

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argumentative

 

[ ˌɑːrɡjʊˈmɛntətɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in a debate

Expressing or presenting a point of view in a debate or argument; having a tendency to argue or debate; characterized by a tendency to disagree or argue with others.

Synonyms

contentious, controversial, disputatious, quarrelsome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
argumentative

Used to describe someone who frequently argues or tends to create arguments, often viewed negatively.

  • He can be very argumentative, always challenging others’ opinions
contentious

Used to describe something that is likely to cause a heated argument or disagreement, often used in legal or formal contexts.

  • The new policy has become a contentious issue among the staff
controversial

Used to describe something that provokes strong and often opposing opinions, not necessarily leading to direct arguments but implying widespread disagreement.

  • The new law is very controversial and has divided the public
disputatious

Used to describe someone who enjoys arguing or debating; often used in a formal or academic context.

  • The disputatious professor loved engaging students in debates
quarrelsome

Used to describe someone who is prone to starting or engaging in conflicts and fights, which is generally seen negatively.

  • He's been quite quarrelsome ever since he lost his job

Examples of usage

  • He is known for his argumentative nature during debates.
  • She can be quite argumentative when discussing politics.
  • The argumentative tone of the discussion made it difficult to reach a consensus.
Context #2 | Adjective

writing or speech

Inclined to argue or dispute; often used to describe writing or speech that aims to persuade or convince by presenting a strong argument.

Synonyms

convincing, eloquent, forceful, persuasive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
argumentative

Used to describe someone who tends to argue or prone to starting disputes. It often has a negative connotation.

  • He was so argumentative during the meeting that no one could make a point.
  • She's known for her argumentative nature, always challenging every statement.
persuasive

Used to describe someone or something that has the ability to convince others effectively. It is usually positive.

  • The advertisement was very persuasive, leading many to buy the product.
  • His persuasive skills helped him close the deal.
convincing

Used when someone or something makes you believe that something is true or certain by arguing or showing evidence. It is generally positive.

  • Her explanation was so convincing that everyone agreed with her.
  • The lawyer presented a convincing case to the jury.
eloquent

Used to describe someone who can express themselves clearly and effectively, often in a way that is beautiful or persuasive. It is a positive term.

  • The speech was so eloquent that it moved everyone in the audience.
  • He was an eloquent speaker, known for his inspiring messages.
forceful

Used to describe communication that is strong and assertive, sometimes coming off as aggressive. It can be neutral or negative depending on the context.

  • She made a forceful argument that couldn't be ignored.
  • His forceful manner made people feel uncomfortable.

Examples of usage

  • Her argumentative essay convinced many readers of her point of view.
  • The lawyer's argumentative skills were evident in the courtroom.
  • An argumentative speech can be effective in swaying opinions.

Translations

Translations of the word "argumentative" in other languages:

🇵🇹 argumentativo

🇮🇳 विवादास्पद

🇩🇪 streitlustig

🇮🇩 argumentatif

🇺🇦 аргументативний

🇵🇱 argumentacyjny

🇯🇵 議論好きな

🇫🇷 argumentatif

🇪🇸 argumentativo

🇹🇷 tartışmacı

🇰🇷 논쟁적인

🇸🇦 جدلي

🇨🇿 argumentativní

🇸🇰 argumentatívny

🇨🇳 好争论的

🇸🇮 argumentativen

🇮🇸 röksemdafullur

🇰🇿 пікірталасқыш

🇬🇪 არგუმენტირებული

🇦🇿 mübahisəli

🇲🇽 argumentativo

Etymology

The word 'argumentative' originated in the mid 17th century from the Latin word 'argumentat-' (from the verb 'arguere' meaning 'to make clear, prove, accuse') combined with the suffix '-ive'. Over time, it evolved to describe someone or something characterized by a tendency to argue or present strong points of view in debates or discussions.

See also: arguable, arguably, argued, arguer, arguing, outargue, unarguable.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,160, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.