Counterargument: a reason against a claim

The idea

Use a counterargument for one opposing reason and counterarguments for several. A counterargument can be to an argument or proposal.

Examples

• The counterargument points to the cost.
• The council considered a counterargument to the proposal.
• Her counterargument challenged the claim about safety.
• They offered two counterarguments during the debate.
• A strong counterargument deserves a careful response.
• The essay addresses the counterargument before defending its position.

Watch out

A counterargument is more than simply saying you disagree: it gives a reason.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the best answer. The ___ against the plan was that it wasted water. (counterargument / conclusion)

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   counterargument / counter-argument

   Counterargument names the reason opposing the plan. (counter-argument)

2. Choose the best answer. The panel heard two ___. (counterargument / counterarguments)

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   counterarguments / counter-arguments

   Counterarguments fits the two separate objections. (counter-arguments)

3. Choose the best answer. We discussed a counterargument ___ the proposal. (to / under)

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   to

   To links the opposing reason to the proposal.

Use it today

Think of a proposal and write a counterargument to it.