Argues

Argues is the third-person singular present tense of the verb argue. It can mean to present reasons to support or oppose a claim, to engage in a discussion intended to persuade someone, or, in everyday usage, to contend with another person about a point.

Etymology and senses: The verb derives from Latin arguere, meaning to make clear or prove, via Old French arguer. In modern English, argue often means to advance reasons or evidence for a proposition, and can also imply disputing or questioning another’s statements.

Usage and constructions: When a subject argues a point or the case, it takes objects like a point or a proposition: “The lawyer argues the defense’s case.” The clause “argues that …” introduces content. It is common to say “argue with someone” (to dispute with a person) or “argue about something” (to dispute a topic). Phrases “argue for” or “argue against” express advocacy for or opposition to something. Example sentences include: “The author argues that policy X should be adopted.” “She argued with her colleague about the timetable.”

Relation to nouns and synonyms: The related noun “argument” refers to a set of reasons or a dispute, while “argumentation” refers to the act of presenting reasons. Argue is related to but distinct from “debate”: a debate is often a formal or organized exchange, whereas arguing can be informal and heated. “Quarrel” or “fight” conveys stronger emotional conflict than simply presenting reasons.