expostulate
Argue against something
To expostulate is to argue earnestly against something, typically trying to dissuade someone from a course of action.
The word implies reasoning or pleading rather than demanding: She expostulated with her son about the dangers of motorcycles.
It's a formal, slightly old-fashioned word that suggests persistent but respectful disagreement.
To argue in opposition
- protestPublic expression of disapproval
- argueVerbally oppose another's view
- disputeVerbal clash over differences
- challengeTest of ability
complain · disapprove · dissent · oppose · rebuke · reprove · admonish · chide
remonstrate
To argue in opposition
- protestPublic expression of disapproval
- argueVerbally oppose another's view
- disputeVerbal clash over differences
challenge · complain · disapprove · dissent · oppose · rebuke · reprove · admonish · chide · upbraid
dissuade
Convince not to
plead · entreat · implore · beseech · appeal · coax · cajole · discourage · deter · warn
debate
Formal argument on issues
- discussTalk about thoroughly
- deliberateConsciously chosen, not accidental
- contendStruggle in opposition
dispute · argue · reason · explain · elucidate · expound · clarify · justify · rationalize · articulate
- fancy wordsgrandiloquent, magniloquent, sesquipedalian, pulchritudinous, tintinnabulation
- encourageencourage, urge, cheer on, exhort, motivate
expostulatehold one's tongue
Deliberately not speak
say nothing · keep quiet · bite one's tongue · look the other way