make an argument vs have an argument

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings. 'Make an argument' means to present reasons or evidence in support of a claim or position. On the other hand, 'have an argument' means to engage in a verbal disagreement or dispute with someone.

Last updated: March 30, 2024

make an argument

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when someone is presenting reasons or evidence in support of a claim or position. It is commonly used in debates, discussions, or persuasive writing.

Examples:

She made a compelling argument in favor of the new policy.
It's important to make a strong argument to convince the jury.
He made an argument for increasing the budget for the project.
The lawyer made a convincing argument in court.
The students made strong arguments for their proposed changes.

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I suppose you can make an argument for both sides.
I haven't even opened my mouth to make an argument.
See if we can find a combination of cases to make an argument.
'Cause you could probably make an argument that she was trying to commit suicide, which isn't funny at all.
Can I make an argument here, Mom?
I want you to make an argument.
I suppose you could make an argument the kid's still in stage I.
You didn't make an argument.
And this time, disabuse yourself of the idea that this is a conversation between equals where I make an argument, you make a counterargument, and we agree to disagree.
Now I'm going to tell it to you, and it's going to seem obvious that that is correct, and that's the point, right? Then I'm going to have to make an argument why you're incorrect about the other assumption.
I do not make an argument for being insulated against the representations and judgment of Parliament or of the Council which represents the taxpayers.
I'm going to make an argument today that may seem a little bit crazy: social media and the end of gender.
Which makes this an argument about nothing.
I'm going to use these two countries to make an economic argument for democracy, rather than against democracy.
You make an interesting argument, but from now on, God values... what I value.
You can't make excuses for an argument like the one you just had with the Mrs.
I'm paid to make arguments, not wave a flag.
You should not dare make that argument.
By the end of the 19th century, you can just write a geology textbook in which you make arguments about how old the Earth is.
Therefore access to public web sites should not be used as an argument to make the Internet the exclusive instrument to access to public information.

Alternatives:

present an argument
offer an argument
construct an argument
formulate an argument
put forth an argument

have an argument

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when referring to engaging in a verbal disagreement or dispute with someone. It is commonly used in the context of conflicts or disagreements between individuals.