back up an argument
/bæk ʌp ən ˈɑːrɡjumənt/
Meaning
This expression means to support, prove, or justify a claim or thesis statement using credible evidence, facts, statistics, or expert opinions. It is a fundamental concept in academic writing, essays, and debates. The tone is academic, logical, and objective.
Examples
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You need to back up your argument with reliable sources rather than just stating your opinion.
You need to back up your argument with reliable sources rather than just stating your opinion.
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The researcher used statistical data from the last decade to back up her argument.
The researcher used statistical data from the last decade to back up her argument.
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If you cannot back up your argument, the professor will likely give you a lower grade on the essay.
If you cannot back up your argument, the professor will likely give you a lower grade on the essay.
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In a debate, it is not enough to speak confidently; you must back up your argument with solid facts.
In a debate, it is not enough to speak confidently; you must back up your argument with solid facts.
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He cited several peer-reviewed journal articles to back up his argument about climate change.
He cited several peer-reviewed journal articles to back up his argument about climate change.
Common Mistakes
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✗ You must support back your argument with facts.
✓ You must back up your argument with facts.
The phrasal verb is 'back up'. 'Support back' is an incorrect combination of 'support' and 'back up'.
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✗ She backed down her argument with excellent data.
✓ She backed up her argument with excellent data.
'Back down' means to withdraw a claim or yield in an argument. 'Back up' means to support or defend it with evidence.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The main challenge of the essay is to find enough scientific data to ___.
💡 Provide evidence to support your claim.
Show answer
back up an argument
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A strong debater knows how to ___ using historical facts.
💡 Support a thesis with evidence.
Show answer
back up an argument