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 counterargument to tanking is simple: It’s intentional losing.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026
One counterargument is that we haven’t had a fatal crash in 15 years.
From Slate • Feb. 4, 2025
Appel: Echoing Seth, because he’s the most important person here, I actually think that the 25 years of “Family Guy” is the counterargument to the perceived tenderness of sensibilities.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2024
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
Already, however, there was a counterargument brewing in the recesses of my own conscience.
From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
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.
