counterargument

[koun-ter-ahr-gyuh-muhnt]

noun

1. a contrasting, opposing, or refuting argument.

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterargument¹

First recorded in 1860–65; counter- + argument

Example Sentences

Prosecutors can also seek an indictment before a grand jury, a move that limits what counterarguments defense attorneys can put forth and protects witnesses from cross-examination.

From Los Angeles Times

They ran into every argument and counterargument that have tugged, pulled and paralyzed other communities.

From Los Angeles Times

“Brazil” is a counterargument all on its own.

From Los Angeles Times

The counterargument is that you can’t make a villain out of that year’s actual champion, Max Verstappen, when Sonny drives a lot like him.

From Los Angeles Times

He never responded to the multiple critiques of his false claims about the program with cogent counterarguments.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• rebuttal 
• repartee 
• retort 

When To Use

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.