- Argue
- Argue Ar"gue, v. t.
1. To debate or discuss; to treat by reasoning; as, the
counsel argued the cause before a full court; the cause
was well argued.
[1913 Webster]
2. To prove or evince; too manifest or exhibit by inference, deduction, or reasoning. [1913 Webster]
So many laws argue so many sins. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
3. To persuade by reasons; as, to argue a man into a different opinion. [1913 Webster]
4. To blame; to accuse; to charge with. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
Thoughts and expressions . . . which can be truly argued of obscenity, profaneness, or immorality. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
Syn: to reason; evince; discuss; debate; expostulate; remonstrate; controvert.
Usage: To {Argue}, {Dispute}, {Debate}. These words, as here compared, suppose a contest between two parties in respect to some point at issue. To argue is to adduce arguments or reasons in support of one's cause or position. To dispute is to call in question or deny the statements or arguments of the opposing party. To debate is to strive for or against in a somewhat formal manner by arguments. [1913 Webster]
Men of many words sometimes argue for the sake of talking; men of ready tongues frequently dispute for the sake of victory; men in public life often debate for the sake of opposing the ruling party, or from any other motive than the love of truth. --Crabb. [1913 Webster]
Unskilled to argue, in dispute yet loud, Bold without caution, without honors proud. --Falconer. [1913 Webster]
Betwixt the dearest friends to raise debate. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.