arguer

An arguer is a person who presents reasons and evidence in support of a position or claim in a discussion or dispute. The term can apply to participants in informal conversations, formal debates, negotiations, or legal proceedings. Depending on context and tone, the word arguer can be neutral or carry a mildly negative connotation when the argument is perceived as combative or unproductive. In more formal settings, terms such as debater or advocate are often used; arguer emphasizes the act of arguing rather than the structure of the debate.

Etymology: from Latin arguere “to make clear; to prove,” via Old French arguier or French argumenter, entering English as arguer. The noun is less common than “debater” but is widely understood as the agent noun for “argue.”

In practice, an arguer presents claims, provides premises or evidence, and attempts to persuade others. A skilled arguer uses logical reasoning, relevance, and sufficient support, while avoiding fallacies; poor arguing may rely on emotion, rhetoric, or appeals to authority without justification.

See also: argumentation, logic, rhetoric, critical thinking, fallacy; related concepts: debate, negotiation. The study of argumentation examines how reasons are constructed, evaluated, and challenged in discourse.