Argumentative Essay

editorial

a newspaper article written by or on behalf of an editor that gives an opinion on a topical issue.

opinion

a point of view, one way of looking at things; NOT always correct

subjective

based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions

objective

unbiased; not subjective

argument

A statement put forth and supported by evidence

current

recent; timely

relevant

closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand

valid

founded on fact or evidence

claim

An assertion, usually supported by evidence

Expert Testimonial

When a person who is believed to be an "expert" or "knowledgeable" in the area, gives their thoughts and opinions. Often times it is a direct quotation.

Counterclaim/Counterargument

A solid and reasonable argument that opposes or disagrees with your claim

rebuttal/refutation

an argument technique wherein opposing arguments are anticipated and countered

fallacy

(n.) a false notion or belief; an error in thinking

Bias

A particular preference or point of view that is personal, rather than scientific.

concise

brief and to the point

Justification

reasoning that is supposed to prove that something is true; basis for an action or argument

stance

position on an issue

context

Words, events, or circumstances that help determine meaning.

credible

believable; reliable

credentials

qualifications

anecdote

A brief narrative that focuses on a particular incident or event.

rhetoric

the art of using language effectively and persuasively

Antithesis

the direct opposite, a sharp contrast

connotation

All the meanings, associations, or emotions that a word suggests

verify

to confirm

generalization

A conclusion drawn from specific information that is used to make a broad statement about a topic or person

diction

A writer's or speaker's choice of words

tone

Attitude a writer takes toward the audience, a subject, or a character

Persuasion

A kind of speaking or writing that is intended to influence people's thoughts or actions.

effective

achieving a desired goal or result

Ethos

Ethical appeal; credibility

Pathos

Appeal to emotion

Logos

an appeal based on logic or reason

premise

the basis for an argument

warrant

to justify

sufficient

enough; adequate

sound (sound reasoning)

solid; there is sufficient logical, trustworthy evidence to support an argument

accurate

exactly correct

authoritative

able to be trusted as being accurate or true; reliable

logical fallacy

An error in reasoning that renders an argument invalid