rebut an argument
/rɪˈbʌt ən ˈɑːrɡjumənt/
Meaning
To prove that a statement, claim, or accusation is false or incorrect by presenting opposing evidence or logical reasoning. This phrase is highly formal and commonly used in academic writing, legal contexts, and structured debates.
Examples
-
The researcher sought to rebut the argument that climate change is purely cyclical by presenting ice core data.
The researcher sought to rebut the argument that climate change is purely cyclical by presenting ice core data.
-
In her thesis, she successfully rebutted the traditional argument regarding the origins of the conflict.
In her thesis, she successfully rebutted the traditional argument regarding the origins of the conflict.
-
To rebut this argument effectively, we must examine the underlying statistical methodology.
To rebut this argument effectively, we must examine the underlying statistical methodology.
-
He struggled to rebut the opponent's argument during the live televised debate.
He struggled to rebut the opponent's argument during the live televised debate.
-
The essay fails to rebut the main counterarguments, leaving the thesis vulnerable to criticism.
The essay fails to rebut the main counterarguments, leaving the thesis vulnerable to criticism.
Common Mistakes
-
✗ He rebutted against the argument.
✓ He rebutted the argument.
'Rebut' is a transitive verb; it does not take the preposition 'against'. You rebut the argument directly.
-
✗ She rebutted that his theory was wrong.
✓ She rebutted his argument by showing his theory was wrong.
'Rebut' is rarely used with a 'that' clause to report speech. It should take a direct object like 'argument', 'claim', or 'assertion'.
Related Expressions
Practice
-
The defense attorney managed to ___ by presenting a solid alibi.
💡 Counter the claims made by the prosecution.
Show answer
rebut the argument
-
In your essay, you should not just state your opinion, but also try to ___ of the opposing side.
💡 Prove the other side's points wrong.
Show answer
rebut the argument