“Arguable” is an adjective that describes something open to debate or challenge. This article explores its meaning, etymology, pronunciation, and usage in modern contexts.
What Type of Word is “Arguable”?
“Arguable” is an adjective. It qualifies or describes nouns, particularly when referring to matters that are debatable, disputable, or capable of being supported by logical argument.
Pronunciation of “Arguable”
- British English:
/ˈɑːɡjʊəbl/
Pronounced as: AR-gyuu-uh-buhl - American English:
/ˈɑrɡjuəb(ə)l/
Pronounced as: AR-gyoo-uh-buhl
Rhyming Words:
- Sustainable
- Attainable
- Unexplainable
- Reasonable
- Questionable
Meaning and Use of “Arguable”
Primary Definition:
- Open to argument or debate:
Describes an idea, point, or claim that can be logically disputed or supported.
Example:
“It is arguable whether technology has improved communication or diminished personal interactions.” - Reasonably considered valid:
Refers to something that has a plausible basis for belief or acceptance, even if not universally agreed upon.
Example:
“It is arguable that the novel deserves its place among the classics.”
Etymology of “Arguable”
- Formation: Derived from the verb “argue” (to present reasons or evidence for or against something) combined with the suffix “-able” (indicating capability or possibility).
- Earliest Use: Recorded in the early 1600s, with the first known appearance in Randle Cotgrave’s lexicographical work in 1611.
Examples of “Arguable” in Sentences
- Historical Context:
1611: “A matter arguable by the most learned scholars of the age.”
(R. Cotgrave) - Modern Contexts:
- “It is arguable that social media has revolutionized public discourse.”
- “The team’s chances of winning are arguable, given their inconsistent performance this season.”
- Debate Context:
- “Whether the new policy benefits the majority is highly arguable.”
Synonyms for “Arguable”
- Debatable
- Contestable
- Disputable
- Questionable
- Controversial
- Justifiable
- Defensible
Antonyms for “Arguable”
- Indisputable
- Undeniable
- Irrefutable
- Certain
- Unquestionable
Frequency of Usage
“Arguable” appears relatively frequently in modern English, with around 0.9 occurrences per million words. It is especially common in academic, legal, and journalistic writing.
Usage in Modern Contexts
- Academic Writing:
“The results are arguable, depending on the methodology used in the study.” - Legal Disputes:
“The lawyer claimed that it was arguable whether the evidence should be admissible in court.” - Everyday Speech:
“It’s arguable that this movie is the best one in the series.”
Conclusion
The adjective “arguable” emphasizes the potential for debate or the reasonable validity of an idea. It remains a versatile and valuable word in discussions requiring critical thinking, legal arguments, and intellectual debate. Whether in casual or formal contexts, its use underlines the complexity and nuance of a given subject.
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