Argumentative Vocabulary

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to argumentative writing and persuasive techniques.

Claim

The assertion of the truth of something; a statement that the author is trying to prove.

Counterclaim

A position taken by someone with an opposing viewpoint, also known as a counterargument.

Defend

To support or justify a claim; to speak or write in favor of a statement.

Challenge

To deny or contradict a claim; to prove a statement to be false.

Qualify

To partially agree with a statement or claim.

Reason

The thinking or logic used to make a claim in an argument.

Evidence

All of the data that supports a claim and helps a reader reach a conclusion.

Central idea

What the text is mainly about.

Purpose

The reason an author writes about a topic.

Perspective

A particular attitude or lens through which readers observe events and information.

Rhetoric

The use of language that is intended to have a persuasive effect on an audience.

Credible

Trustworthy; offering reasonable grounds for being believed.

Bias

Prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another; usually considered to be unfair.

Fallacy

A wrong idea, a mistaken belief; the state of being false, wrong, or mistaken.

Rhetorical question

A question posed to make an audience change the way they think or behave.

Ethos

How an author or speaker develops credibility and trust.

Pathos

Appealing to the audience's emotions.

Logos

Appealing to the audience's logic and common sense.

Rhetorical device

A technique used by a writer or speaker to enhance their arguments and communicate more effectively.

Issue

An important topic or problem for debate or discussion