Argumentative Common Vocabulary

When the author supports his/her position with logical reasoning and evidence

• argument

• information

• narration

• citation

The reference to the source used in order to find evidence

• argument

• citation

• reason

• commentary

Opinion based statements that tell the reader WHY they should believe the claim

• citation

• evidence

• reasons

• argument

Remarks or observations that provide insight into the relevance or implications of evidence

• evidence

• claim

• argument

• commentary

Facts, details, & examples that support whether the argument is true or valid

• evidence

• claim

• counterclaim

• bias

Main point the writer is trying to make; the position (pro or con)

• bias

• reason

• claim

• evidence

The opposing view; disagrees with the claim

• rebuttal

• counterclaim

• argument

• reason

When a speaker or writer presents reasoning or evidence intended to undermine or weaken the claim of an opponent

• rebuttal

• counterclaim

• bias

• citation

A tendency to lean in a certain direction;

• Refuse to take the consideration or the opinions of others;

• Lack a neutral  viewpoint

• rebuttal

• counterclaim

• claim

• bias

In speech or writing, it refers to an impersonal, objective, and precise use of language;

• --Avoid contractions and abbreviations (unless it is well known like USA, NATO)

• --Write in third person. Writer is disconnected from the topic. Do not use “I” or “we” or “you” 

• --Complex sentences or manner of speaking: main point needs to be introduced, elaborated on, and concluded

• formal style

• sound reasoning

• claim

• bias