SAT words about argument practice

What does 'assert' mean?

'Assert' means to state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.

True or false: 'Refute' means to prove a statement true.

False, because 'refute' means to prove a statement false.

Define 'counterargument'.

A counterargument is an argument that opposes another argument or viewpoint.

What is an 'ad hominem' argument?

An ad hominem argument attacks the person making the argument rather than addressing the argument itself.

Difference between 'premise' and 'conclusion'.

- Premise: statement providing support - Conclusion: statement derived from premises

Fill in the blank: 'To _____ an argument is to provide evidence against it.'

refute

What does 'concede' mean?

'Concede' means to admit that something is true, often after denying it.

True or false: 'Bias' can strengthen an argument.

False, because bias can weaken an argument by making it less objective.

Define 'fallacy'.

A fallacy is a flaw in reasoning that renders an argument invalid.

What is meant by 'rhetoric'?

Rhetoric is the art of persuasive speaking or writing.

What does 'dissent' mean in the context of an argument?

'Dissent' refers to disagreement or opposition to a prevailing idea.

Fill in the blank: 'A _____ is a statement that accepts the truth of something.'

claim

Difference between 'fact' and 'opinion'.

- Fact: objective truth - Opinion: subjective belief

What does 'persuade' mean?

'Persuade' means to convince someone to do or believe something.

True or false: 'Evidence' supports a claim.

True, because evidence provides the basis for supporting a claim.

Define 'rationale'.

Rationale is the reasoning behind a particular belief or action.

What does 'validate' mean?

'Validate' means to confirm the truth or accuracy of something.

Fill in the blank: 'To _____ a viewpoint is to explain why it is reasonable.'

justify

What is a 'straw man' argument?

A straw man argument misrepresents an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack.

True or false: 'Syllogism' is a form of deductive reasoning.

True, because syllogism uses premises to arrive at a conclusion.

Define 'thesis statement'.

A thesis statement is a sentence that summarizes the main point or claim of an essay.