definitional argument
[ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃənəl ˈɑrɡjumənt]
nounpl: definitional arguments
argumento definitório
1. A type of argument that disputes the correct definition or meaning of a key term, rather than disputing facts or logical reasoning
The debate about whether a fetus is a 'person' is fundamentally a definitional argument about the boundaries of personhood.
O debate sobre se um feto é uma 'pessoa' é fundamentalmente um argumento definitório sobre os limites da personalidade.
2. A disagreement where parties cannot proceed with substantive discussion because they cannot agree on what a term means or entails
The team fell into a definitional argument about what counts as 'success' before they could evaluate their project.
A equipe caiu em um argumento definitório sobre o que conta como 'sucesso' antes de poderem avaliar seu projeto.
3. In rhetoric and argumentation, a dispute that hinges on how concepts or terms should be defined rather than empirical facts
Rather than engaging in a definitional argument about the nature of art, the critics focused on specific works.
Em vez de se envolver em um argumento definitório sobre a natureza da arte, os críticos se concentraram em obras específicas.
This term is primarily used in academic, legal, and rhetorical contexts in both Brazilian Portuguese and American English. In the USA, definitional arguments are common in political discourse, constitutional debates, and philosophical discussions. In Brazil, the concept is similarly employed in academic argumentation and legal proceedings, though it may be expressed more colloquially in everyday conversation. The recognition of definitional arguments as distinct from factual arguments is an important skill in critical thinking and debate in both cultures.
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