Argument Vocabulary

Question 1

A reason or set of reasons given with the aim of persuading others that an action or idea is right or wrong.

Answer 1

Argument

Question 2

An assertion/statement of the truth of something.

Answer 2

Claim

Question 3

To state a fact or belief confidently.

Answer 3

Assert

Question 4

When one tries to argue both sides evenly, thus not asserting a clear position.

Answer 4

Equivocate

Question 5

One’s stance on an issue.

Answer 5

Position

Question 6

To contradict a position.

Answer 6

Challenge

Question 7

To support a position.

Answer 7

Defend

Question 8

To set parameters for an argument (Yes, but . . . or No, but . . .)

Answer 8

Qualify

Question 9

Types of evidence

Answer 9

Hypothetical, General, Somewhat Specific, Specific

Question 10

Examples that could potentially happen but have not actually happened (tends to be weak evidence and should not be included in essays.)

Answer 10

Hypothetical Evidence

Question 11

Evidence that is to vague or too broad.

Answer 11

General Evidence

Question 12

Evidence that has some concrete details but is still somewhat imprecise.

Answer 12

Somewhat Specific Evidence

Question 13

evidence that contains detailed information to help the reader clearly understand the example.

Answer 13

Specific Evidence

Question 14

Analysis that explains the significance of the evidence.

Answer 14

Commentary

Question 15

The opposing argument.

Answer 15

Counterargument

Question 16

A claim made to rebut (go against /refute/disprove) a previous claim.

Answer 16

Counterclaim

Question 17

A refutation or contradiction; follows the counterclaim to disprove it, thus strengthening one’s position.

Answer 17

Rebuttal

Question 18

Acknowledging the merit of the opposing argument.

Answer 18

Concession

Question 19

The action of proving a statement or theory to be wrong or false.

Answer 19

Refutation