argumentation

American  

[ahr-gyuh-men-tey-shuhn] / ˌɑr gyə mɛnˈteɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the process of developing or presenting an argument; reasoning.

2. discussion; debate; disputation.

   The lengthy argumentation tired many listeners.

3. a discussion dealing with a controversial point.

4. the setting forth of reasons together with the conclusion drawn from them.

5. the premises and conclusion so set forth.

6. argument.

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argumentation British  

/ ˌɑːɡjʊmɛnˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. the process of reasoning methodically

2. a less common word for argument argument

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Other Word Forms

• argumentatious adjective

Etymology

Origin of argumentation

1400–50; late Middle English argumentacioun (< Middle French ) < Latin argūmentātiōn- (stem of argūmentātiō ). See argument, -ation

Explanation

Argumentation is a very logical way of discussing or debating an idea. When you use the technique of argumentation, you prove something to be true or false. Argumentation uses logic, persuasion, and various debate tactics to arrive at a conclusion. When a debater or negotiator follows the rules of argumentation, she backs up her ideas with very systematic, careful reasoning that makes her conclusion strong and believable. From the 15th century, argumentation has meant "presentation of formal arguments," from the Latin root argumentationem, "the bringing forth of a proof."

Example Sentences

It took significant time and argumentation for the rest of the community to accept this possibility: the paper spent a record two years under peer and editorial review.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 2026

Ultimately, the huge numbers adduced to support this and other assertions throughout the book seem intended to shock rather than to support serious causal argumentation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

It’s like an Escher painting of insipid legal argumentation, except written in purple crayon.

From Slate • Apr. 11, 2024

“We think this is a horrible line of argumentation that would have a devastating and chilling effect on protesters,” Sykes said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2024

“This is something people need to hear about, Jus. Its an argumentation gold mine!”

From "Dear Martin" by Nic Stone