Argument vs. Explanation: What's the Difference?

Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Published on November 1, 2023

Argument; A reason or set of reasons given to persuade. Explanation; A statement that clarifies or makes clear.

Key Differences

An Argument generally refers to a point or series of points put forth to persuade or prove something, whereas an Explanation serves to clarify or elucidate a particular point or concept.

The purpose of an Argument is often to convince or persuade someone of a particular stance or idea. In contrast, an Explanation simply aims to shed light on a subject without necessarily pushing a viewpoint.

It's possible for someone to present an Argument without giving a detailed Explanation. Conversely, one might offer an Explanation without necessarily making an Argument for or against something.

An Argument can be thought of as a tool used in debates or discussions to support one's position. On the other hand, an Explanation is more about informing and clarifying rather than debating.

While Arguments might contain Explanations within them to bolster their points, not all Explanations are Arguments, as they might merely be providing information without any persuasive intent.

Comparison Chart

Purpose

To persuade or prove

To clarify or elucidate

Typical Usage

Debates, discussions

Informative contexts

Contains

Points, reasons

Clarifications, details

Stance

Generally has a viewpoint

Neutral, just provides information

Connection

Can contain explanations

Doesn't necessarily contain arguments

Argument and Explanation Definitions

Argument

A discussion where disagreement is expressed.

The two colleagues had an Argument about the project's direction.

Explanation

A statement that makes something clear.

He gave an Explanation about the missing files.

Argument

A summary of the main points of a literary work.

The play began with a brief Argument outlining the plot.

Explanation

A description of a concept or idea.

The textbook provided a concise Explanation of quantum physics.

Argument

A discussion in which the parties involved express disagreement with one another; a debate

Philosophical arguments over the nature of existence.

Explanation

The reasons or justifications given for an action or event.

Her Explanation for being late was due to traffic.

Argument

An angry discussion involving disagreement among the participants; a quarrel

The roommates had an argument about whose turn it was to wash the dishes.

Explanation

The act or process of explaining

Launched into a detailed explanation.

Argument

(Archaic) A reason or matter for dispute or contention

"sheath'd their swords for lack of argument" (Shakespeare).

Explanation

Something that explains

That was supposedly the explanation for their misdeeds.

Argument

A course of reasoning aimed at demonstrating truth or falsehood

Presented a strong argument for the arts in education.

Explanation

A mutual clarification of misunderstandings; a reconciliation.

Argument

A fact or statement put forth as proof or evidence; a reason

The current low mortgage rates are an argument for buying a house now.

Explanation

The act or process of explaining.

The explanation was long and drawn-out.

Argument

A set of statements in which one follows logically as a conclusion from the others.

Explanation

Something that explains, makes understandable.

An explanation for the UFO sightings was easily found.

Argument

A summary or short statement of the plot or subject of a literary work.

Explanation

A resolution of disputed points pursuant to discussion; a mutual clarification of disputed points; reconciliation.

Argument

A topic; a subject

"You and love are still my argument" (Shakespeare).

Explanation

The act of explaining, expounding, or interpreting; the act of clearing from obscurity and making intelligible; as, the explanation of a passage in Scripture, or of a contract or treaty.

Argument

(Logic) The minor premise in a syllogism.

Explanation

That which explains or makes clear; as, a satisfactory explanation.

Argument

The independent variable of a function.

Explanation

The meaning attributed to anything by one who explains it; definition; interpretation; sense.

Different explanations [of the Trinity].

Argument

The angle of a complex number measured from the positive horizontal axis.

Explanation

A mutual exposition of terms, meaning, or motives, with a view to adjust a misunderstanding, and reconcile differences; reconciliation; agreement; as, to come to an explanation.

Argument

(Computers) A value used to evaluate a procedure or subroutine.

Explanation

A statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.;

The explanation was very simple

I expected a brief account

Argument

(Linguistics) A word, phrase, or clause in a semantic relation with a word or phrase and that helps complete the meaning of that word or phrase, such as a noun phrase that is the object of a verb. The clause that we go is an argument of the verb suggest in the sentence I suggest that we go.

Explanation

Thought that makes something comprehensible

Argument

A fact or statement used to support a proposition; a reason.

Explanation

The act of explaining; making something plain or intelligible;

I heard his explanation of the accident

Argument

A series of propositions organized so that the final proposition is a conclusion which is intended to follow logically from the preceding propositions, which function as premises.

Explanation

An interpretation of events or facts.

The scientist's Explanation of the phenomenon was groundbreaking.

Argument

(countable) A process of reasoning; argumentation.

Explanation

A clarification of a problematic situation.

The manager demanded an Explanation for the team's oversight.

Argument

(countable) An abstract or summary of the content of a literary work such as a book, a poem or a major section such as a chapter, included in the work before the content itself; (figuratively) the contents themselves.

Argument

(countable) A verbal dispute; a quarrel.

The neighbours got into an argument about the branches of the trees that extended over the fence.

Argument

Any dispute, altercation, or collision.

Steve got in a physical argument with his neighbor and came away with a black eye.

While biking home, he got in an argument with the pavement.

Argument

Any of the phrases that bears a syntactic connection to the verb of a clause.

Argument

The independent variable of a function.

Argument

The phase of a complex number.

Argument

A quantity on which the calculation of another quantity depends.

The altitude is the argument of the refraction.

Argument

A value, or a reference to a value, passed to a function.

Parameters are like labelled fillable blanks used to define a function whereas arguments are passed to a function when calling it, filling in those blanks.

Argument

A parameter at a function call; an actual parameter, as opposed to a formal parameter.

Argument

A matter in question; a business in hand.

Argument

The subject matter of an artistic representation, discourse, or writing; a theme or topic.

Argument

Evidence, proof; (countable) an item of such evidence or proof.

Argument

To put forward as an argument; to argue.

Argument

To adduce evidence, to provide proof.

Argument

Proof; evidence.

There is.. no more palpable and convincing argument of the existence of a Deity.

Why, then, is it made a badge of wit and an argument of parts for a man to commence atheist, and to cast off all belief of providence, all awe and reverence for religion?

Argument

A reason or reasons offered in proof, to induce belief, or convince the mind; reasoning expressed in words; as, an argument about, concerning, or regarding a proposition, for or in favor of it, or against it.

Argument

A process of reasoning, or a controversy made up of rational proofs; argumentation; discussion; disputation.

The argument is about things, but names.

Argument

The subject matter of a discourse, writing, or artistic representation; theme or topic; also, an abstract or summary, as of the contents of a book, chapter, poem.

You and love are still my argument.

The abstract or argument of the piece.

[Shields] with boastful argument portrayed.

Argument

Matter for question; business in hand.

Sheathed their swords for lack of argument.

Argument

The quantity on which another quantity in a table depends; as, the altitude is the argument of the refraction.

Argument

The independent variable upon whose value that of a function depends.

Argument

To make an argument; to argue.

Argument

A fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true;

It was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true

Argument

A contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement;

They were involved in a violent argument

Argument

A discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal;

The argument over foreign aid goes on and on

Argument

A summary of the subject or plot of a literary work or play or movie;

The editor added the argument to the poem

Argument

A variable in a logical or mathematical expression whose value determines the dependent variable; if f(x)=y, x is the independent variable

Argument

A series of reasons given to support a proposition.

His Argument was based on historical data.

Argument

A point provided in a discussion.

She presented a strong Argument for sustainability.

Argument

In math, an independent variable.

In complex analysis, the Argument of a function is vital.

FAQs

What's the main goal of an Explanation?

The main goal of an Explanation is to clarify, elucidate, or provide understanding about a topic.

Are all Explanations Arguments?

No, while an Explanation can clarify a point, it doesn't necessarily persuade or argue for a stance.

Can an Argument include an Explanation?

Yes, Arguments often contain Explanations to bolster their points.

Why do people use Arguments?

People use Arguments to persuade, convince, or support a particular viewpoint or stance.

Is an Explanation always neutral?

Ideally, an Explanation should be neutral, simply clarifying or informing, but it can sometimes contain biases.

Can Explanations be lengthy?

Yes, depending on the topic, Explanations can be brief or detailed.

Do Explanations always solve misunderstandings?

Explanations aim to clarify, but they don't always resolve misunderstandings.

How can one differentiate between an Argument and an Explanation?

An Argument persuades or proves a point, while an Explanation clarifies or makes a concept clear.

Are there cultural differences in framing Arguments?

Yes, cultural backgrounds can influence the structure and presentation of Arguments.

How is the term Argument used in mathematics?

In math, an Argument refers to the input value of a function, especially in complex analysis.

Can an Argument be without facts?

While an Argument can be made without facts, strong Arguments are typically backed by evidence.

Are Arguments always confrontational?

No, Arguments can be presented in a constructive or non-confrontational manner.

Why are Explanations important in teaching?

Explanations help students understand complex topics and provide clarity.

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About Author

Written by

Janet White

Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.

Edited by

Harlon Moss

Harlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.