The term argumentative generally refers to a tendency or characteristic of frequently engaging in argument or dispute. It describes someone who is often ready to disagree, quarrel, or contend with others
. More specifically:
- In everyday language , being argumentative means being given to arguing or being contentious, often quick to disagree or provoke debate
- In legal context , "argumentative" is a specific objection raised during a trial when a question posed to a witness improperly prompts them to draw conclusions or inferences rather than state facts. It is used to prevent lawyers from "arguing" their case through witnesses rather than asking factual questions
- In writing and discourse , argumentative refers to a style or form of communication that involves presenting reasons and evidence to support a particular claim or position, often while addressing opposing viewpoints. For example, an argumentative essay presents a clear thesis and supports it with evidence and reasoning to persuade the reader
In summary, argumentative can describe a person's disposition to argue, a legal objection to improper questioning, or a structured form of reasoning and writing aimed at persuasion.
