noun

das Argument, -e

argument

Ein Streitgespräch, bei dem zwei oder mehr Personen unterschiedliche Meinungen haben und versuchen, sich gegenseitig zu überzeugen.

Definition & meaning

The word "Argument" in German primarily refers to a reason or a series of reasons presented to support or refute a specific statement, idea, or theory. It is a central element in logic and rhetoric, used to persuade an audience or to prove the validity of a claim.

In specialized contexts, the word has additional meanings:

Mathematics and Computer Science: It refers to an independent variable or a specific value that is passed to a function or a procedure to determine its outcome.
Linguistics: It describes a phrase or element that is required by a verb (or predicate) to complete its meaning, such as the subject or the direct object in a sentence.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a neuter noun (das Argument). Its plural form is "Argumente".

It originates from the Latin noun argumentum, which means "evidence," "ground," "proof," or "logical theme." This Latin term is derived from the verb arguere, which means "to make clear," "to prove," or "to demonstrate." The word entered the German language through academic and legal usage during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms: In the context of a debate or logical proof, common synonyms include Beweisgrund, Beleg, Begründung, and Rechtfertigung. If the argument is meant to challenge something, Einwand might be used.

Antonyms: The most direct opposite is Gegenargument, which refers to a counter-reason. Other terms that function as opposites in terms of logic or structure include Behauptung, which is a mere assertion without proof, or Widerspruch.