Argument vs. Discussion — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 30, 2023
Argument involves presenting reasons for or against something, while Persuasion is about influencing beliefs or actions.
Difference Between Argument and Discussion
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An argument typically involves opposing viewpoints where participants attempt to persuade or prove their point. In contrast, a discussion is a more general exchange of ideas and information that may not involve disagreement. Argument often entails a more adversarial tone, while discussion is usually characterized by a collaborative and exploratory nature.
In an argument, participants may present evidence or reasons to support their position, aiming to convince others of their perspective. On the other hand, during a discussion, individuals may share thoughts, ask questions, and seek to understand various viewpoints without necessarily trying to persuade. Arguments often have a win-lose dynamic, whereas discussions lean towards a win-win situation, fostering understanding and consensus.
Emotional intensity tends to be higher in arguments, where people are personally invested in their viewpoints. Discussions, however, are often more neutral and less emotionally charged, focusing on exchanging views rather than defending them vehemently. An argument can sometimes lead to heightened emotions and conflicts, while a discussion usually maintains a calmer, more respectful environment.
Arguments often aim at reaching a conclusion or decision, with participants advocating for their preferred outcome. In contrast, discussions might not always seek a definitive conclusion but rather aim to explore a topic from multiple angles. Argument focuses on arriving at a specific point or resolution, whereas discussion values the process of exploration and exchange.
The structure of an argument tends to be more rigid, following a logic where each party presents their case systematically. Discussions are typically more fluid, allowing for a free-flowing exchange of ideas that might meander through various topics. Arguments emphasize structured reasoning and evidence, while discussions embrace a more open-ended, conversational approach.
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Comparison Chart
Tone
Often confrontational
Generally cooperative
Goal
To persuade or win
To understand or explore
Emotion
Can be intense or heated
Usually calm and respectful
Resolution
May result in a winner and loser
Often leads to mutual understanding
Communication
May involve interrupting or talking over
Involves listening and constructive exchange
Compare with Definitions
Argument
Debate
The candidates engaged in a spirited argument during the debate.
Discussion
Exchange of Ideas
Their discussion on environmental issues was enlightening.
Argument
Legal Case
The lawyer presented her argument before the court.
Discussion
Conversation
We had a long discussion about our future plans.
Argument
In logic and philosophy, an argument is a series of statements (in a natural language), called the premises or premisses (both spellings are acceptable), intended to determine the degree of truth of another statement, the conclusion. The logical form of an argument in a natural language can be represented in a symbolic formal language, and independently of natural language formally defined "arguments" can be made in math and computer science.
Discussion
Deliberation
The committee entered into a discussion to reach a decision.
Argument
An exchange of diverging or opposite views, typically a heated or angry one
There was some argument about the decision
I've had an argument with my father
Heated arguments over public spending
Discussion
Dialogue
The team had a discussion about project goals.
Argument
A reason or set of reasons given in support of an idea, action or theory
He rejected the argument that keeping the facility would be costly
There is a strong argument for submitting a formal appeal
Discussion
Consultation
The manager called for a discussion with the employees.
Argument
An independent variable associated with a function or proposition and determining its value. For example, in the expression y = F(x₁, x₂), the arguments of the function F are x₁ and x₂, and the value is y.
Discussion
The action or process of talking about something in order to reach a decision or to exchange ideas
The EC directive is currently under discussion
The committee acts as a forum for discussion
Argument
Any of the noun phrases in a clause that are related directly to the verb, typically the subject, direct object, and indirect object.
Discussion
Consideration of a subject by a group; an earnest conversation.
Argument
A summary of the subject matter of a book.
Discussion
A formal discourse on a topic; an exposition.
Argument
A discussion in which the parties involved express disagreement with one another; a debate
Philosophical arguments over the nature of existence.
Discussion
Conversation or debate concerning a particular topic.
There was then a long discussion of whether to capitalize words like "east".
This topic is not open to discussion.
My discussion with the professor was very enlightening.
Argument
An angry discussion involving disagreement among the participants; a quarrel
The roommates had an argument about whose turn it was to wash the dishes.
Discussion
Text giving further detail on a subject.
Under each heading, you will find a discussion.
Argument
(Archaic) A reason or matter for dispute or contention
"sheath'd their swords for lack of argument" (Shakespeare).
Discussion
The dispersion of a tumour.
Argument
A course of reasoning aimed at demonstrating truth or falsehood
Presented a strong argument for the arts in education.
Discussion
The act or process of discussing by breaking up, or dispersing, as a tumor, or the like.
Argument
A fact or statement put forth as proof or evidence; a reason
The current low mortgage rates are an argument for buying a house now.
Discussion
The act of discussing or exchanging reasons; examination by argument; debate; disputation; agitation.
The liberty of discussion is the great safeguard of all other liberties.
Argument
A set of statements in which one follows logically as a conclusion from the others.
Discussion
An extended communication (often interactive) dealing with some particular topic;
The book contains an excellent discussion of modal logic
His treatment of the race question is badly biased
Argument
A summary or short statement of the plot or subject of a literary work.
Discussion
An exchange of views on some topic;
We had a good discussion
We had a word or two about it
Argument
A topic; a subject
"You and love are still my argument" (Shakespeare).
Argument
(Logic) The minor premise in a syllogism.
Argument
The independent variable of a function.
Argument
The angle of a complex number measured from the positive horizontal axis.
Argument
(Computers) A value used to evaluate a procedure or subroutine.
Argument
(Linguistics) A word, phrase, or clause in a semantic relation with a word or phrase and that helps complete the meaning of that word or phrase, such as a noun phrase that is the object of a verb. The clause that we go is an argument of the verb suggest in the sentence I suggest that we go.
Argument
A fact or statement used to support a proposition; a reason.
Argument
A series of propositions organized so that the final proposition is a conclusion which is intended to follow logically from the preceding propositions, which function as premises.
Argument
(countable) A process of reasoning; argumentation.
Argument
(countable) An abstract or summary of the content of a literary work such as a book, a poem or a major section such as a chapter, included in the work before the content itself; (figuratively) the contents themselves.
Argument
(countable) A verbal dispute; a quarrel.
The neighbours got into an argument about the branches of the trees that extended over the fence.
Argument
Any dispute, altercation, or collision.
Steve got in a physical argument with his neighbor and came away with a black eye.
While biking home, he got in an argument with the pavement.
Argument
Any of the phrases that bears a syntactic connection to the verb of a clause.
Argument
The independent variable of a function.
Argument
The phase of a complex number.
Argument
A quantity on which the calculation of another quantity depends.
The altitude is the argument of the refraction.
Argument
A value, or a reference to a value, passed to a function.
Parameters are like labelled fillable blanks used to define a function whereas arguments are passed to a function when calling it, filling in those blanks.
Argument
A parameter at a function call; an actual parameter, as opposed to a formal parameter.
Argument
A matter in question; a business in hand.
Argument
The subject matter of an artistic representation, discourse, or writing; a theme or topic.
Argument
Evidence, proof; (countable) an item of such evidence or proof.
Argument
To put forward as an argument; to argue.
Argument
To adduce evidence, to provide proof.
Argument
Proof; evidence.
There is.. no more palpable and convincing argument of the existence of a Deity.
Why, then, is it made a badge of wit and an argument of parts for a man to commence atheist, and to cast off all belief of providence, all awe and reverence for religion?
Argument
A reason or reasons offered in proof, to induce belief, or convince the mind; reasoning expressed in words; as, an argument about, concerning, or regarding a proposition, for or in favor of it, or against it.
Argument
A process of reasoning, or a controversy made up of rational proofs; argumentation; discussion; disputation.
The argument is about things, but names.
Argument
The subject matter of a discourse, writing, or artistic representation; theme or topic; also, an abstract or summary, as of the contents of a book, chapter, poem.
You and love are still my argument.
The abstract or argument of the piece.
[Shields] with boastful argument portrayed.
Argument
Matter for question; business in hand.
Sheathed their swords for lack of argument.
Argument
The quantity on which another quantity in a table depends; as, the altitude is the argument of the refraction.
Argument
The independent variable upon whose value that of a function depends.
Argument
To make an argument; to argue.
Argument
A fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true;
It was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true
Argument
A contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement;
They were involved in a violent argument
Argument
A discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal;
The argument over foreign aid goes on and on
Argument
A summary of the subject or plot of a literary work or play or movie;
The editor added the argument to the poem
Argument
A variable in a logical or mathematical expression whose value determines the dependent variable; if f(x)=y, x is the independent variable
Argument
Contentious Exchange
They had an argument about politics at dinner.
Argument
Reasoning
His argument for the new policy was quite convincing.
Argument
Dispute
The neighbors' argument over the fence line got quite loud.
Common Curiosities
What is the main goal of a discussion?
The main goal is to exchange ideas and gain mutual understanding.
How can one turn an argument into a discussion?
By shifting the focus to understanding each other’s views rather than winning.
What defines an argument?
An argument is a conversation where opposing views are presented, often with the aim to persuade or disprove.
Is an argument always negative?
Not necessarily. Arguments can be constructive if conducted respectfully and logically.
Can a discussion involve disagreement?
Yes, but it’s usually addressed in a cooperative and respectful manner.
Is it better to have a discussion or an argument?
It depends on the context, but discussions are generally more conducive to problem-solving.
Can a discussion turn into an argument?
Yes, if disagreements become the focus and the tone becomes confrontational.
Can an argument be productive?
Yes, if it leads to clarity of viewpoints and constructive outcomes.
What characterizes a discussion?
A discussion is an exchange of ideas or information, characterized by respect and an aim for understanding.
Do arguments always involve anger?
Not always, but they can involve strong emotions and heated exchanges.
What skills are important for a discussion?
Active listening, open-mindedness, and respectful communication are key.
How can one contribute effectively to a discussion?
By sharing ideas, listening actively, and respecting different viewpoints.
What is the role of emotions in an argument?
Emotions can play a big role but should be managed to maintain constructive dialogue.
Are arguments common in debates?
Yes, arguments are a central part of formal debates.
Is compromise more likely in a discussion or an argument?
Compromise is more likely in a discussion due to its cooperative nature.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
