counterargument
Americannoun
Usage
What does counterargument mean? A counterargument is an argument that is issued in response to someone else’s argument to show that the original claim is somehow incorrect.An argument, in this context, is a series of reasons used to make a claim. A counterargument is always a response—its point is to refute (prove wrong) the original argument. The term is most commonly used in formal contexts, like debates or courtroom settings, but it can also be used in informal contexts, like everyday discussions.Example: The debate team worked diligently to prepare a counterargument that disproved their opponents’ stance.
Etymology
Origin of counterargument
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The bots possess an exhausting reflex to present both sides of every issue, creating a false, artificial balance even when the counterargument is absurd.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026
“Brazil” is a counterargument all on its own.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2025
One counterargument is that we haven’t had a fatal crash in 15 years.
From Slate • Feb. 4, 2025
In his latest special, Pete Holmes makes a forceful counterargument to atheist comics like Ricky Gervais who mock belief in God.
From New York Times • Dec. 20, 2023
But Dimple knew he’d talk her down, that he’d have a good counterargument for every one of hers.
From "When Dimple Met Rishi" by Sandhya Menon
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
