argue

To argue is to disagree, debate, or fight with words. This is a good word to use when people are upset with each other and communicate their feelings:

• Our neighbors constantly argue with each other. You can always hear them yelling.
• David argued with the teacher after class because he thought his final grade was too low.
• Don’t argue with a police officer. It doesn’t do any good.
• Two men were arguing with each other when suddenly one man hit the other man.
• It’s not a good idea to argue with your boss.
• Their position will be argued in court. (The verb "argue" in this sentence is in the passive voice.)

They’re arguing.

The noun form of this word is "argument."

• They’re having an argument.
• Charles and Mark got into a big argument, and now they never talk to each other.
• We overheard an argument happening next door.
• Let’s not have an argument. Let’s try to agree.

Published April 2, 2013