To argue means to give reasons for or against something, especially when you disagree with someone else. When two students argue about whether recess should be longer, each one explains why they think they're right. When a lawyer argues a case in court, she presents evidence and reasoning to convince the judge or jury.

Arguing isn't the same as fighting, though people often confuse the two. A good argument uses logic and examples to make a point. You might argue that your class should take a field trip to the science museum by explaining what everyone would learn there. Your friend might argue the opposite by pointing out that the history museum would be more educational. Both of you are arguing, and you're doing it by presenting reasons, not by yelling or calling names.

The word can also describe a heated disagreement where emotions run high. When siblings argue about whose turn it is to choose the TV show, they might raise their voices and get frustrated with each other. This kind of arguing often generates more heat than light, meaning people feel strongly but don't always think clearly.

In writing, an argument is the main point an author wants to prove. A student writing an essay about why dogs make better pets than cats is making an argument and supporting it with evidence. Whether calm or heated, arguing involves taking a position and defending it with reasons.