Argument Vocab

Question 1

Argument

Answer 1

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

Question 2

Claim

Answer 2

An assertion/statement of the truth or something.

Question 3

Assert

Answer 3

To state a fact or belief confidently

Question 4

Equivocate

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Position

Answer 5

One’s stance on an issue

Question 6

Defend

Answer 6

To support a position

Question 7

Qualify

Answer 7

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

Question 8

Hypothetical Evidence

Answer 8

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

Question 9

General Evidence

Answer 9

Evidence that is vague or too broad

Question 10

Somewhat Specific Evidence

Answer 10

Evidence that has some concrete details but is still somewhat impercise

Question 11

Specific Evidence

Answer 11

Evidence that contains detailed information to help the reader clearly understand the example

Question 12

Commentary

Answer 12

Analysis that explains the significance of the evidence

Question 13

Counterargument

Answer 13

The opposing argument

Question 14

Counterclaim

Answer 14

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

Question 15

Rebuttal

Answer 15

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

Question 16

Concession

Answer 16

Acknowledging the merit of the opposing argument

Question 17

Refutation

Answer 17

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