You know what a statement is: a sentence that is true or false. An argument is a group of statements where some are offered as reasons for another. In logic, an argument is not a quarrel; it is a case made with reasons.
Key idea
An argument has a conclusion (the claim to be accepted) and at least one premise (a reason offered for it). A passage with no reason offered for a claim is not an argument.
Why it works
The point of an argument is to give someone a reason to believe something they might doubt. If a passage only describes, reports, warns, or states a view without support, there is nothing for a listener to weigh: no "because", stated or implied.
| Passage | Argument? |
|---|---|
| "The pool closes at six, and it's already half past five. So we won't have time to swim." | Yes: two reasons support a conclusion. |
| "The pool opened in 1985. It has a diving board." | No: a description. |
| "Watch out! The floor is wet." | No: a warning. |
| "Swimming is the best sport. Nothing will change my mind." | No: a bare opinion, said twice. |
| "If it snows, school starts late." | No: one if-then statement. |
Worked example: Find the reason
"Our class should plant tomatoes. They grow well in full sun, and our garden gets sun all day." Is this an argument?
- Look for the claim the speaker wants us to accept: "Our class should plant tomatoes."
- Look for reasons: tomatoes grow well in full sun; the garden gets sun all day.
- Reasons are offered for a claim, so this is an argument.
Answer: Yes, it is an argument.
Common mistake
Calling a strong opinion an argument. "This movie is terrible, the worst ever!" is forceful, but force is not a reason. Ask: what reason is offered? If you cannot point to one, it is an assertion, not an argument.