ENGLISH
REFERENCE

argues

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɑɹɡjuz// UK //ˈɑːɡjuːz// ar·gues

v. to give reasons to show that you are right about an idea or a plan. You do this to try to persuade other people to agree with you.

v. to present reasons or evidence in support of a specific idea, action, or theory. Often used in academic contexts to introduce a scholar's central thesis or position.


SIMPLE

She argues that we should spend more money on schools.

CONTEXTUAL

The author argues that the economic crisis was caused by a lack of government oversight rather than consumer spending.

COMPLEX

The report argues for a complete restructuring of the energy sector, citing the urgent need to mitigate carbon emissions while maintaining grid stability.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive when followed by a 'that' clause, or intransitive when followed by 'for' or 'against'.

Pitfall

He argues about that the plan is badHe argues that the plan is badWhen introducing a statement with 'that', do not use the preposition 'about'.

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