Argument
WordNet
noun
(1) A variable in a logical or mathematical expression whose value determines the dependent variable; if f(x)=y, x is the independent variable
(2) A summary of the subject or plot of a literary work or play or movie
"The editor added the argument to the poem"
(3) A fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true
"It was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true"
(4) A discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal
"The argument over foreign aid goes on and on"
(5) A contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement
"They were involved in a violent argument"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From < < < ; see argue.
Noun
- A fact or statement used to support a proposition; a reason:
- A verbal dispute; a quarrel.
- A process of reasoning.
- A series of statements organized so that the final statement is a conclusion which is intended to follow logically from the preceding statements, which function as premises.
- The independent variable of a function.
- A value, or reference to a value, passed to a function.
- A parameter in a function definition; a formal argument.
- A summary or short statement of the plot or chief points of a book.
Usage notes
- ( formal argument) The use of the word argument without formal as a qualifier is common, but is a loose usage. Parameter is more correct.
Synonyms
(value) actual argument parameter- See also Wikisaurus:argument
- See also Wikisaurus:dispute
Related terms
- argue
- arguer
- arguable
- argumentative
- argumentation