argue

argueverb

To argue is to speak angrily with someone because you disagree, or to give reasons to support an opinion.

1. quarrelspeak angrily with someone because you disagree

   intransitive [I] verb + preposition + object [V + prep + obj]

   • The neighbors are always arguing about money. V + prep + obj
   • She argued with her brother over the last slice. V + prep + obj
   • Let's not argue in front of the children.
   • They argued for hours but never agreed.

   Collocations

   verb + preposition argue with, argue about, argue over

   Synonyms quarrel; fight

   Compare disagree; discuss

2. give reasonsgive reasons to support an opinion or a claim

   transitive or intransitive [T/I] verb + object [V + obj] verb + that-clause [V + that] verb + preposition + object [V + prep + obj]

   • She argued that the plan was too risky. V + that
   • He argued for a change in the rules. V + prep + obj
   • Some scientists argue against the new theory. V + prep + obj
   • The lawyer argued the case skillfully. V + obj

   Collocations

   verb + preposition argue for, argue against

See also quarrel; disagree