counter argument for essay

25 Counterargument Examples

A counterargument is a response, rebuttal, or refutation of an argument with your own argument. Its purpose is to oppose and disprove a theory that someone else has put forward.

We use counterarguments extensively in debates as well as argumentative essay writing.

When teaching essay writing, I teach my students to always present counterarguments to their opponents’ points of view. This helps them to strengthen their own argument and demonstrate awareness of potential rebuttals.

Below are some methods, with examples, that could be used – be it in essay writing, debates, or any other communication genre.

Counterargument Examples

1. empirical challenges.

An empirical challenge is, simply, a rebuttal that challenges the facts presented by the opponent, showing that their facts are wrong and yours are right.

To undermine your opponent’s set of facts, it will be your job to present facts that show that the opponent’s supposed facts are wrong, perhaps due to misreading data or cherry-picking.

Then, you would need to present concrete information, data, or evidence that negates the claim or conclusion of an opponent’s argument.

The core strength of empirical challenges is in their reliance on hard facts and numbers, which are difficult to refute without equally credible opposing data.

Example of Empirical Challenge: If your opponent argues that global warming isn’t a serious issue, an empirical challenge would be to provide scientific data or research studies showing the increase in global temperatures and the harmful effects.

See Also: Empirical Evidence Examples

2. Challenging the Relevance

Challenging the relevance means questioning whether your opponent’s argument or perspective is applicable to the discussion at hand.

This sort of counter-argument seeks to destabilize your opponent’s view by showing that, while their facts or arguments might be sound in isolation, they do not bear any relation to, or are unfit for, the topic at hand, making them irrelevant.

The power of relevance challenge lays in its ability to destabilize your opponent’s argument without needing to directly dispute the truth of their claims.

Example of Challenging the Relevance: You will often find this argument when comparing the usefulness of various research methodologies for a research project. Multiple research methods may be valid, but there’s likely one that’s best for any given study.

See Also: Relevance Examples

3. Reductio ad absurdum

Reductio ad absurdum is a latin term that means reducing to the absurd . This method involves demonstrating the absurdity of an opponent’s argument by showing its illogical or extreme consequences.

The goal is to show that if the argument were valid, it would inevitably lead to senseless or ridiculous outcomes.

The application of reductio ad absurdum is especially effective in debates or discussions where flawed logic or hyperbolic statements are used to influence the audience’s opinion, as it discredits the credibility of the other person’s argument.

Example of Reductio ad absurdum : Consider a scenario where someone argues for the total removal of all regulations on vehicle speed to improve the efficiency of transportation. You can counter this argument through reductio ad absurdum by stating, “By that logic, let’s allow cars to travel at 200 miles per hour down residential streets. After all, it would make the mail delivery much faster!” It becomes evident that permitting extremely high speeds could lead to dangerous conditions and potential for disastrous accidents.

4. Pointing Out Logical Fallacies

The strategy of pointing out logical fallacies involves identifying and highlighting flaws in your opponent’s reasoning.

In a debate or discussion, logical fallacies are often subtle errors that lead to invalid conclusions or arguments.

By identifying these fallacies, you avoid being swayed by flawed reasoning and instead promote cognizant, logical thought.

Successful use of this strategy requires a good understanding of the different kinds of logical fallacies , such as straw man fallacies, ad hominem attacks, and appeals to ignorance.

Example of Pointing Out Logical Fallacies: Consider an argument where your opponent asserts, “All cats I’ve ever seen have been aloof, so all cats must be aloof.” This is a hasty generalization fallacy, where a conclusion about all members of a group is drawn from inadequate sample size.

5. Counterexamples

A counterexample is an example that opposes or contradicts an argument or theory proposed by another.

The use of a counterexample is a practical and powerful means of rebutting an argument or theory that has been presented as absolute or universally applicable.

When you provide a singular example that contradicts your opponent’s proposed theory, it demonstrates the theory isn’t universally true and therefore, weakens their argument.

However, this tactic requires sound knowledge and a good command of subject matter to be able to identify and present valid exceptions.

Example of Counterexamples: Consider an argument where someone states that “Mammals can’t lay eggs.” A solid counterexample would be the platypus, a mammal that does lay eggs. This single example is sufficient to contradict the universal claim.

6. Using Hypotheticals

Hypothetical situations, in essence, are imagined scenarios used to refute your opponent’s point of view. It’s, in essence, an example that is plausible, but not real.

Using hypotheticals assists in clarifying the ramifications of a particular argument, policy, or theory. When a hypothetical scenario effectively illustrates the flaws or shortcomings of your opponent’s viewpoint, it can completely unsettle their position.

However, care must be taken to frame the hypotheticals reasonably and realistically, lest they distort the argument or derail the conversation.

Example of Using Hypotheticals: If someone argues that raising the minimum wage will lead to job loss, you could counter with a hypothetical that if businesses paid their employees more, those employees would have more spending power, bolstering the economy and creating more jobs.

7. Comparison and Contrast

Comparison and contrast entails directly comparing your argument to your opponent’s, showing the strength of your perspective and the weakness of the opponent’s.

This tool allows you to support your arguments or disprove your opponent’s by using existing examples or situations that illustrate your point clearly.

The technique relies heavily on the logical thinking of comparing two or more entities in a manner that is informative, convincing, and significant to the argument.

Example of Comparison and Contrast: Let’s say, for instance, you are arguing against privatization of public utilities. You could compare the rates and services of private utilities to those of public ones showing that private companies often charge more for the same services, thereby supporting your argument against privatization.

See More: Compare and Contrast Examples

8. Challenging Biases

Challenging biases involves questioning the objectivity of your opponent’s argument by pointing out the predispositions that may influence their perspective.

Biases can greatly affect the validity and reliability of an argument because they can skew the interpretation of information and hinder fair judgement.

By challenging biases, you can expose the partiality in your opponent’s argument, thereby diminishing its credibility and persuasiveness.

However, it’s important to respectfully and tactfully challenge biases to prevent the discussion from turning into a personal attack.

Example of Challenging Biases: If your opponent is a staunch supporter of a political party and they provide an argument that solely favors this party, you could challenge their bias by questioning whether their support for the party is unduly influencing their viewpoint, hence the need for them to consider the opposing perspectives.

See More: List of Different Biases

9. Ethical Dispute

Ethical disputes involve challenging your opponent’s argument based on moral values or principles.

Ethics play a crucial role in shaping people’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions. Therefore, ethical disputes can serve as powerful counterarguments, especially in debates concerning sensitive or controversial topics.

If your opponent’s position contradicts generally accepted ethical norms or values, you can point this out to weaken their argument.

Just remember, ethics can occasionally be subjective and personal, so it’s important to approach ethical disputes with sensitivity and respect.

Example of Ethical Dispute: If your opponent supports factory farming based on economic benefits, you could challenge their argument by pointing out the ethical issues related to animal welfare and the environment.

10. Challenging the Source

Challenging the source is a tactic used to question the credibility or reliability of the information used by your opponent in their argument.

This technique focuses on examining the origin of the evidence presented, probing whether the source is credible, trusted, and free from bias.

To do this, I recommend using this media literacy framework .

If the source used by your opponent is flawed, biased or unreliable, their argument loses credibility, making your position stronger.

Example of Challenging the Source: If your opponent uses an obscure blog as their primary source of their argument on a scientific topic, you could challenge the source by questioning its credibility and offering information from reputable scientific journals instead.

See More: Good Sources for Essay Writing

A Full List of Methods for Counterargument

• Empirical challenges
• Challenging the relevance
• Reductio ad absurdum
• Pointing out logical fallacies
• Counterexamples
• Using hypotheticals
• Comparison and contrast
• Challenging biases
• Ethical dispute
• Challenging the source
• Questioning assumptions
• Slippery slope argument
• Challenging a false dichtomy
• Historical Precedent
• Anecdotal Evidence
• Challenging the Definition
• Socratic Questioning
• Highlighting Unintended Consequences
• Appeal to Emotion
• Challenging the Frame
• Highlighting Inconsistencies
• Challenging Completeness
• Temporal Challenge
• Offering alternative explanations
• Exposing oversimplifications
• Appeal to authority

Counterargument is an essential skill for debaters and essay writers. You need to be able to know and understand strategies for countering the arguments of your opponents to position your argument in the best light possible. To do this, we have to vectors of attack: First, you can undermine their arguments and demonstrate the flaws. Second, you can present your argument as stronger.

The key, however, is to ensure your arguments are as airtight and foolproof as possible to prevent effective rebuttals to your own counterarguments!

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Argumentative Essays: The Counter-Argument & Refutation

An argumentative essay presents an argument for or against a topic. For example, if your topic is working from home , then your essay would either argue in favor of working from home (this is the for  side) or against working from home.

Like most essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction that ends with the writer's position (or stance) in the thesis statement .

Introduction Paragraph

(Background information....)

• Thesis statement : Employers should give their workers the option to work from home in order to improve employee well-being and reduce office costs.

This thesis statement shows that the two points I plan to explain in my body paragraphs are 1) working from home improves well-being, and 2) it allows companies to reduce costs. Each topic will have its own paragraph. Here's an example of a very basic essay outline with these ideas:

• Background information

Body Paragraph 1

• Topic Sentence : Workers who work from home have improved well-being .
• Evidence from academic sources

Body Paragraph 2

• Topic Sentence : Furthermore, companies can reduce their expenses by allowing employees to work at home .
• Summary of key points
• Restatement of thesis statement

Does this look like a strong essay? Not really . There are no academic sources (research) used, and also...

You Need to Also Respond to the Counter-Arguments!

The above essay outline is very basic. The argument it presents can be made much stronger if you consider the counter-argument , and then try to respond (refute) its points.

The counter-argument presents the main points on the other side of the debate. Because we are arguing FOR working from home, this means the counter-argument is AGAINST working from home. The best way to find the counter-argument is by reading research on the topic to learn about the other side of the debate. The counter-argument for this topic might include these points:

• Distractions at home > could make it hard to concentrate
• Dishonest/lazy people > might work less because no one is watching

Next, we have to try to respond to the counter-argument in the refutation (or rebuttal/response) paragraph .

The Refutation/Response Paragraph

The purpose of this paragraph is to address the points of the counter-argument and to explain why they are false, somewhat false, or unimportant. So how can we respond to the above counter-argument? With research !

A study by Bloom (2013) followed workers at a call center in China who tried working from home for nine months. Its key results were as follows:

• The performance of people who worked from home increased by 13%
• These workers took fewer breaks and sick-days
• They also worked more minutes per shift

In other words, this study shows that the counter-argument might be false. (Note: To have an even stronger essay, present data from more than one study.) Now we have a refutation.

Where Do We Put the Counter-Argument and Refutation?

Commonly, these sections can go at the beginning of the essay (after the introduction), or at the end of the essay (before the conclusion). Let's put it at the beginning. Now our essay looks like this:

Counter-argument Paragraph

• Dishonest/lazy people might work less because no one is watching

Refutation/Response Paragraph

• Study: Productivity  increased by 14%
• (+ other details)

Body Paragraph 3

• Topic Sentence : In addition, people who work from home have improved well-being .

Body Paragraph 4

The outline is stronger now because it includes the counter-argument and refutation. Note that the essay still needs more details and research to become more convincing.

Working from home may increase productivity.

Extra Advice on Argumentative Essays

It's not a compare and contrast essay.

An argumentative essay focuses on one topic (e.g. cats) and argues for or against it. An argumentative essay should not have two topics (e.g. cats vs dogs). When you compare two ideas, you are writing a compare and contrast essay. An argumentative essay has one topic (cats). If you are FOR cats as pets, a simplistic outline for an argumentative essay could look something like this:

• Thesis: Cats are the best pet.
• are unloving
• cause allergy issues
• This is a benefit >  Many working people do not have time for a needy pet
• If you have an allergy, do not buy a cat.
• But for most people (without allergies), cats are great
• Supporting Details

Use Language in Counter-Argument That Shows Its Not Your Position

The counter-argument is not your position. To make this clear, use language such as this in your counter-argument:

• Opponents might argue that cats are unloving.
• People who dislike cats would argue that cats are unloving.
• Critics of cats could argue that cats are unloving.
• It could be argued that cats are unloving.

These  underlined phrases make it clear that you are presenting  someone else's argument , not your own.

Choose the Side with the Strongest Support

Do not choose your side based on your own personal opinion. Instead, do some research and learn the truth about the topic. After you have read the arguments for and against, choose the side with the strongest support as your position.

Do Not Include Too Many Counter-arguments

Include the main (two or three) points in the counter-argument. If you include too many points, refuting these points becomes quite difficult.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below.

- Matthew Barton / Creator of Englishcurrent.com

Additional Resources :

• Writing a Counter-Argument & Refutation (Richland College)
• Language for Counter-Argument and Refutation Paragraphs (Brown's Student Learning Tools)

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23 comments on “ Argumentative Essays: The Counter-Argument & Refutation ”

Thank you professor. It is really helpful.

Can you also put the counter argument in the third paragraph

It depends on what your instructor wants. Generally, a good argumentative essay needs to have a counter-argument and refutation somewhere. Most teachers will probably let you put them anywhere (e.g. in the start, middle, or end) and be happy as long as they are present. But ask your teacher to be sure.

Thank you for the information Professor

how could I address a counter argument for “plastic bags and its consumption should be banned”?

For what reasons do they say they should be banned? You need to address the reasons themselves and show that these reasons are invalid/weak.

Thank you for this useful article. I understand very well.

Thank you for the useful article, this helps me a lot!

Thank you for this useful article which helps me in my study.

Thank you, professor Mylene 102-04

it was very useful for writing essay

Very useful reference body support to began writing a good essay. Thank you!

Really very helpful. Thanks Regards Mayank

Thank you, professor, it is very helpful to write an essay.

It is really helpful thank you

It was a very helpful set of learning materials. I will follow it and use it in my essay writing. Thank you, professor. Regards Isha

Thanks Professor

This was really helpful as it lays the difference between argumentative essay and compare and contrast essay.. Thanks for the clarification.

This is such a helpful guide in composing an argumentative essay. Thank you, professor.

This was really helpful proof, thankyou!

Thanks this was really helpful to me

This was very helpful for us to generate a good form of essay

thank you so much for this useful information.

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How to Write a Counter Argument (Step-by-Step Guide)

Have you been asked to include a counter argument in an essay you are writing? Unless you are already an experienced essay writer, you may have no idea where to even start. We're here to help you tackle your counter argument like a pro.

What Is a Counter Argument?

A counter argument is precisely what it sounds like — an argument that offers reasons to disagree with an essay's thesis statement. As you are writing your essay, you will likely pen multiple supporting arguments that outline precisely why readers should logically agree with the thesis. In a counter argument paragraph, you show that you also understand common reasons to believe differently.

In any given essay, you may write one or more counter arguments — and then, frequently, immediately refute them. Whether you are required to include a counter argument or you simply want to, always include:

• A simple statement explaining the counter argument. As it will likely follow paragraphs in which you fleshed out your argument, this can start with words like "Some people are concerned that", or "critics say", or "On the other hand".
• Then include further reasoning, data, or statistics.
• Following this, you will want to discredit the counter argument immediately.

Why Include a Counter Argument?

Including a counter argument (or multiple, for that matter) in an essay may be required, but even in cases where it is not, mentioning at least one counter argument can make your essay much stronger. You may, at first glance, believe that you are undermining yourself and contradicting your thesis statement. That's not true at all. By including a counter argument in your essay, you show that:

• You have done your research and are intimately familiar with each aspect of your thesis, including opposition to it.
• You have arrived at your conclusion through the power of reason, and without undue bias.
• You do not only blindly support your thesis, but can also deal with opposition to it.

In doing so, your essay will become much more reasoned and logical, and in practical terms, this likely means that you can count on a higher grade.

How To Write a Counter Argument (Step-by-Step Guide)

You have been laboring over your essay for a while, carefully researching each aspect of your thesis and making strong arguments that aim to persuade the reader that your view is the correct one — or at least that you are a solid writer who understands the subject matter and deserves a good grade for your efforts.

If you are passionate about the topic in question, it can be hard to decide how to incorporate a counter argument. Here's how to do it, step-by-step:

1. Brainstorm

You have already researched your topic, so you know on what grounds people most frequently oppose your argument. Write them down. Pick one, or a few, that you consider to be important and interesting. Formulate the counter argument as if you were on the opposing side.

2. Making the Transition

Your counter argument paragraph or paragraphs differ from the rest of your essay, so you will want to introduce a counter argument with a transition. Common ways to do this are to introduce your counter argument with phrases like:

• Admittedly, conversely, however, nevertheless, or although.
• Opponents would argue that...
• Common concerns with this position are...
• Critics say that...

3. Offering Evidence

Flesh the counter argument out by offering evidence — of the fact that people hold that position (where possible, quote a well-known opponent), as well as reasons why. Word your counter argument in such a way that makes it clear that you have carefully considered the position, and are not simply belittling it. This portion of your counter argument will require doing additional research in most cases.

4. Refute the Counter Argument

You are still arguing in favor of your main thesis. You will, therefore, not just want to describe the opposing side and leave it at that — you will also thoughtfully want to show why the opposing argument is not valid, in your opinion, and you will want to include evidence here, as well.

5. Restate Your Argument

After refuting your counter argument, you can go ahead and restate your argument. Why should people believe what you have to say, despite any opposition?

How To Write A Good Counter Argument

As you're writing a counter argument, you might run into some difficulties if you fervently believe in the truth of your argument. Indeed, in some cases, your argument may appear to you to be so obvious that you don't understand why anyone could think differently.

To help you write a good counter argument, keep in mind that:

• You should never caricature the opposing viewpoint. Show that you deeply understand it, instead.
• To do this, it helps if you validate legitimate concerns you find in an opponent's point of view.
• This may require quite a bit of research, including getting into the opposing side's mindset.
• Refute your counter argument with compassion, and not smugly.

Examples of Counter Arguments with Refutation

Still not sure? No worries; we have you covered. Take a look at these examples:

• Many people have argued that a vaccine mandate would strip people of their individual liberties by forcing them to inject foreign substances into their bodies. While this is, in a sense, true, the option of remaining unvaccinated likewise forces other people to be exposed to this virus; thereby potentially stripping them of the most important liberty of all — the liberty to stay alive.
• The concern has been raised that the death penalty could irreversibly strip innocent people of their lives. The answer to this problem lies in raising the bar for death penalty sentences by limiting them to only those cases in which no question whatsoever exists that the convicted party was truly guilty. Modern forensic science has made this infinitely easier.

In short, you'll want to acknowledge that other arguments exist, and then refute them. The tone in which you do so depends on your goal.

What is a counter argument in a thesis?

A counter argument is one that supports the opposing side. In an essay, it shows that you understand other viewpoints, have considered them, and ultimately dismissed them.

Where do I place the counter argument in an essay?

Place the counter argument after your main supporting arguments.

How long should the counter argument be?

It may be a single paragraph or multiple, depending on how important you believe the counter argument to be and the length of the essay.

What is the difference between a counter argument and a rebuttal?

A counter argument describes the opposing side in some detail before it is refuted. In a rebuttal, you may simply oppose the opposition.

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The Study Blog : Tips

8 counter argument examples to help you write a strong essay.

By Evans Oct 26, 2020

A one-sided essay is like a beautiful dish with no flavor. Everyone looks at it, but nobody wants to partake of it. An essay presenting one side of a debate shows that you are not reasonable. Instead of persuading your readers, it ends up feeling like you’re just forcing an opinion on them. How do you change this? How do you make your essay interesting and persuasive? Counter argument! You heard me right. Using the counter argument is one of the best ways that you can strengthen your essay.

Before we proceed further, what exactly is a counter-argument? An academic essay means that you need to come up with a thesis, a strong one at that, and even stronger points that support that particular thesis . You also need to come up with an argument that opposes your thesis. This is what we call a counter-argument. It is basically, an argument that is against your thesis.

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What is the purpose of a counter-argument?

When writing an essay, especially to persuade, you need to put yourself in the shoes of your readers. What are they likely to think about your thesis? How can they possibly argue against it? What questions might they have against the idea you are trying to sell to them? A counter-argument allows you to creatively and wisely respond to these questions. A counter-argument clears any doubts that your reader may have on your argument. It also shows them that you are the bigger person by actually addressing arguments against your thesis.

Counter argument examples

Let’s say your argument is about getting the patient to consent to it, rather than have the doctors decide on it.

A reader might argue: a patient may be too sickly to even consent for euthanasia.

Refutal: you can refute the counter-argument by proving that it is possible to get a patient in the right frame long enough to sign the consent form.

Overprotective parents

Argument: overprotective parents often treat their grown-up children like babies. As a result, these children grow to be very dependent on the parents and unable to make decisions on their own.

Counter-argument: parents have seen more than their children. Protecting them from the problems they encountered saves the children from getting hurt.

Refutal: Though parents think that shielding their grown children protects them from the dangerous world, they only end up protecting children from living. As a result, if such a child makes a mistake, it might be very hard for them to recover from it.

Getting a dog as a pet for young children

Argument: getting a dog as a pet for younger children is not a very good idea as children may not understand how to take care of the dog.

Counter-argument: having a pet teaches the children responsibility.

Rebuttal: While it is true that having a pet can teach kids how to become more responsible, the fact remains that taking care of a pet is a full-time job. A pet is not like a toy that you can discard when tired of it. Young kids may not have the stamina or the time to take care of a pet.

Exposure to technology

Argument: Technology provides children with an amazing learning experience. Children who have been exposed to technology learn pretty first how to deal and respond to different situations better than students who have no exposure to technology.

You may also like: How to write a technology essay: tips, topics, and examples

Counter argument: early exposure to entertainment and violence affects the cognitive skills of a child.

Rebuttal: Although some form of technology may affect the cognitive skills of a child, it doesn’t mean that children should be kept away from technology. There are learning programs that provide a better learning experience as compared to formal education. Doing away with technology is not the answer. The answer is controlling what children are exposed to.

Argument: taking part in elections is not only a right but a responsibility that every citizen should participate in.

Counter-argument: It is better not to vote than vote in a corrupt person.

Rebuttal: While you might feel like not taking part in the voting process keeps you from the guilt of choosing the wrong person, the truth is that you only give other people the right to choose for you. This means that if a corrupt person gets in, you’re still responsible for not voting for a better candidate.

Argument: Smoking should not be allowed on campuses.

Counter-argument: smoking is not illegal, especially to someone above 18 years old. Since it is not illegal, students should be allowed to smoke within the campus vicinity.

Rebuttal: indeed, smoking is not illegal. However, smoking on campus can prove to be fatal especially to students with health issues such as asthma. It is widely known that smoking affects not just the person holding the cigar but everyone else around them. Therefore, to keep students safe, smoking should not be allowed on campus.

Animal testing

Argument: animals should not be used as test subjects.

Counter-argument: animals happen to be the best test method for health products

Rebuttal: While it is true that over the years animals have been used as test subjects, it doesn’t change the fact that these tests often subject animals to excruciating pain. Research shows that there are better alternatives that can be used, thereby saving animals from unnecessary pain.

Cyberbullying

Argument: Cyberbullying is a serious issue and therefore it is very important to understand how to protect yourself from cyberbullies.

Counter-argument: the victims do not need to learn how to protect themselves and use the internet fearfully. The internet should be made secure for every user and all cyberbullying should be put to jail.

Rebuttal: nobody deserves to be afraid while using the internet. However, while it is a very good idea to have all cyberbullies jailed, that remains to be just a dream. This is because almost everyone can be a cyber-bully at one point or another. It, therefore, remains your responsibility to protect yourself and also learn how to handle cyberbullying.

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Final thoughts

As the examples show, a good persuasive essay should contain your thesis statement , a counter-argument, and a rebuttal of the counter-argument. This makes your essay strong, very persuasive, and with a very good flavor.

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Counterarguments

A counterargument involves acknowledging standpoints that go against your argument and then re-affirming your argument. This is typically done by stating the opposing side’s argument, and then ultimately presenting your argument as the most logical solution. The counterargument is a standard academic move that is used in argumentative essays because it shows the reader that you are capable of understanding and respecting multiple sides of an argument.

Counterargument in two steps

Respectfully acknowledge evidence or standpoints that differ from your argument.

Refute the stance of opposing arguments, typically utilizing words like “although” or “however.”

In the refutation, you want to show the reader why your position is more correct than the opposing idea.

Where to put a counterargument

Can be placed within the introductory paragraph to create a contrast for the thesis statement.

May consist of a whole paragraph that acknowledges the opposing view and then refutes it.

• Can be one sentence acknowledgements of other opinions followed by a refutation.

Why use a counterargument?

Some students worry that using a counterargument will take away from their overall argument, but a counterargument may make an essay more persuasive because it shows that the writer has considered multiple sides of the issue. Barnet and Bedau (2005) propose that critical thinking is enhanced through imagining both sides of an argument. Ultimately, an argument is strengthened through a counterargument.

Examples of the counterargument structure

• Argument against smoking on campus:  Admittedly, many students would like to smoke on campus. Some people may rightly argue that if smoking on campus is not illegal, then it should be permitted; however, second-hand smoke may cause harm to those who have health issues like asthma, possibly putting them at risk.
• Argument against animal testing:  Some people argue that using animals as test subjects for health products is justifiable. To be fair, animal testing has been used in the past to aid the development of several vaccines, such as small pox and rabies. However, animal testing for beauty products causes unneeded pain to animals. There are alternatives to animal testing. Instead of using animals, it is possible to use human volunteers. Additionally, Carl Westmoreland (2006) suggests that alternative methods to animal research are being developed; for example, researchers are able to use skin constructed from cells to test cosmetics. If alternatives to animal testing exist, then the practice causes unnecessary animal suffering and should not be used.

Harvey, G. (1999). Counterargument. Retrieved from writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/counter- argument

Westmoreland, C. (2006; 2007). “Alternative Tests and the 7th Amendment to the Cosmetics Directive.” Hester, R. E., & Harrison, R. M. (Ed.) Alternatives to animal testing (1st Ed.). Cambridge: Royal Society of Chemistry.

Barnet, S., Bedau, H. (Eds.). (2006). Critical thinking, reading, and writing . Boston, MA: Bedford/St. Martin’s.

Contributor: Nathan Lachner

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Writing a Paper: Responding to Counterarguments

Basics of counterarguments.

When constructing an argument, it is important to consider any counterarguments a reader might make. Acknowledging the opposition shows that you are knowledgeable about the issue and are not simply ignoring other viewpoints. Addressing counterarguments also gives you an opportunity to clarify and strengthen your argument, helping to show how your argument is stronger than other arguments.

Incorporating counterarguments into your writing can seem counterintuitive at first, and some writers may be unsure how to do so. To help you incorporate counterarguments into your argument, we recommend following the steps: (a) identify, (b) investigate, (c) address, and (d) refine.

Identify the Counterarguments

First you need to identify counterarguments to your own argument. Ask yourself, based on your argument, what might someone who disagrees counter in response? You might also discover counterarguments while doing your research, as you find authors who may disagree with your argument.

For example, if you are researching the current opioid crisis in the United States, your argument might be: State governments should allocate part of the budget for addiction recovery centers in communities heavily impacted by the opioid crisis . A few counterarguments might be:

• Recovery centers are not proven to significantly help people with addiction.
• The state’s money should go to more pressing concerns such as...
• Establishing and maintaining a recovery center is too costly.
• Addicts are unworthy of assistance from the state. 

Investigate the Counterarguments

Analyze the counterarguments so that you can determine whether they are valid. This may require assessing the counterarguments with the research you already have or by identifying logical fallacies . You may also need to do additional research.

In the above list, the first three counterarguments can be researched. The fourth is a moral argument and therefore can only be addressed in a discussion of moral values, which is usually outside the realm of social science research. To investigate the first, you could do a search for research that studies the effectiveness of recovery centers. For the second, you could look at the top social issues in states around the country. Is the opioid crisis the main concern or are there others? For the third, you could look for public financial data from a recovery center or interview someone who works at one to get a sense of the costs involved. 

Address the Counterarguments

Address one or two counterarguments in a rebuttal. Now that you have researched the counterarguments, consider your response. In your essay, you will need to state and refute these opposing views to give more credence to your argument. No matter how you decide to incorporate the counterargument into your essay, be sure you do so with objectivity, maintaining a formal and scholarly tone . 

Considerations when writing:

• Will you discredit the counteragument by bringing in contradictory research?
• Will you concede that the point is valid but that your argument still stands as the better view? (For example, perhaps it is very costly to run a recovery center, but the societal benefits offset that financial cost.)
• Placement . You can choose to place the counterargument toward the beginning of the essay, as a way to anticipate opposition, or you can place it toward the end of the essay, after you have solidly made the main points of your argument. You can also weave a counterargument into a body paragraph, as a way to quickly acknowledge opposition to a main point. Which placement is best depends on your argument, how you’ve organized your argument, and what placement you think is most effective.
• Weight . After you have addressed the counterarguments, scan your essay as a whole. Are you spending too much time on them in comparison to your main points? Keep in mind that if you linger too long on the counterarguments, your reader might learn less about your argument and more about opposing viewpoints instead. 

Refine Your Argument

Considering counterarguments should help you refine your own argument, clarifying the relevant issues and your perspective. Furthermore, if you find yourself agreeing with the counterargument, you will need to revise your thesis statement and main points to reflect your new thinking. 

Templates for Responding to Counterarguments

There are many ways you can incorporate counterarguments, but remember that you shouldn’t just mention the counterargument—you need to respond to it as well. You can use these templates (adapted from Graff & Birkenstein, 2009) as a starting point for responding to counterarguments in your own writing.

• The claim that _____ rests upon the questionable assumption that _____.
• X may have been true in the past, but recent research has shown that ________.
• By focusing on _____, X has overlooked the more significant problem of _____.
• Although I agree with X up to a point, I cannot accept the overall conclusion that _____.
• Though I concede that _____, I still insist that _____.
• Whereas X has provided ample evidence that ____, Y and Z’s research on ____ and ____ convinces me that _____ instead.
• Although I grant that _____, I still maintain that _____.
• While it is true that ____, it does not necessarily follow that _____.

Graff, G., & Birkenstein, C. (2009). They say/I say: The moves that matter in academic writing (2 nd ed.). Norton.

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Writing Resources

Counterargument.

This handout is available for download in DOCX format and PDF format .

When you write an academic essay, you make an argument: you propose a thesis and offer evidence and reasoning to suggest why the thesis is true. When you counter-argue, you consider a possible argument against your thesis or some aspect of your logic. This is a good way to test your ideas early on, while you still have time to revise them. And in the finished essay, it can be a persuasive and disarming tactic. It allows you to anticipate doubts and pre-empt possible objections; it presents you as someone who weighs alternatives before arguing for one, who confronts difficulties instead of ignoring them, who is more interested in discovering the truth than winning a point.  

Not every objection is worth entertaining, of course, and you shouldn't include one just to include one. But some imagining of other views, or of resistance to one's own, occurs in most good essays. And instructors are glad to encounter counterargument in student papers, even if they haven't specifically asked for it.

The Turn Against

Counterargument in an essay has two stages: you turn against your argument to challenge it and then you turn back to re-affirm it. You first imagine a skeptical reader, or cite an actual source, who might resist your argument by pointing out:

• a problem with your demonstration, e.g., that a different conclusion could be drawn from the same facts, a key assumption is unwarranted, a key term is used unfairly, certain evidence is ignored or played down
• one or more disadvantages or practical drawbacks to what you propose
• an alternative explanation or proposal that makes more sense

You introduce this “turn against” with a phrase like One might object here that... or It might seem that... or It's true that... or Admittedly,... or Of course,... or with an anticipated challenging question: But how...? or But why...? or But isn't this just...? or But if this is so, what about...? Then you state the case against yourself as briefly but as clearly and forcefully as you can, pointing to evidence where possible. (An obviously feeble or perfunctory counterargument does more harm than good.)

The Turn Back

Your return to your own argument—which you announce with a but , yet , however , nevertheless or still —must likewise involve careful reasoning, not a flippant or nervous dismissal. In reasoning about the proposed counterargument, you may:

• refute it, showing why it is mistaken—an apparent but not real problem
• acknowledge its validity or plausibility, but suggest why on balance it's relatively less important or less likely than what you propose, and thus doesn't overturn it
• concede its force and complicate your idea accordingly; restate your thesis in a more exact, qualified, or nuanced way that takes account of the objection; or start a new section in which you consider your topic in light of it. (This will work if the counterargument concerns only an aspect of your argument; if it undermines your whole case, you need a new thesis.)

Where to Put a Counterargument

Counterargument can appear anywhere in the essay, but it most commonly appears:

• as part of your introduction—before you propose your thesis—where the existence of a different view is the motive for your essay, the reason it needs writing
• as a section or paragraph just after your introduction, in which you lay out the expected reaction or standard position before turning away to develop your own
• as a quick move within a paragraph, where you imagine a counterargument not to your main idea but to the sub-idea that the paragraph is arguing or is about to argue
• as a section or paragraph just before the conclusion of your essay, in which you imagine what someone might object to what you have argued

Watch that you don't overdo it! An occasional counterargument will sharpen and energize your essay, but too many will weaken it by obscuring your main idea or hinting that you're ambivalent.

Counterargument in Pre-Writing and Revising

Good thinking constantly questions itself, so having an inner debate during the drafting stage can help you settle on a case worth making. As you consider possible theses and begin to write your draft, ask yourself: how might an intelligent person plausibly disagree with you or see matters differently? When you can imagine an intelligent disagreement, you have an arguable idea.

Others can be of assistance here, too! If you ask people around you what they think of topic X and/or stay alert for uncongenial remarks in class discussions, etc., you'll encounter a useful disagreement somewhere. Awareness of this disagreement, however you use it in your essay, will force you to sharpen your own thinking as you write. If you come to find the counterargument more persuasive than your thesis, consider making it your thesis and turning your original thesis into a counterargument. And finally, if you manage to draft an essay without imagining a counterargument, make yourself imagine one before you revise and see if you can integrate it.

Adapted from Gordon Harvey, The Elements of the Academic Essay, 2009.

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21 Argument, Counterargument, & Refutation

In academic writing, we often use an Argument essay structure. Argument essays have these familiar components, just like other types of essays:

• Introduction
• Body Paragraphs

But Argument essays also contain these particular elements:

• Debatable thesis statement in the Introduction
• Argument – paragraphs which show support for the author’s thesis (for example: reasons, evidence, data, statistics)
• Counterargument – at least one paragraph which explains the opposite point of view
• Concession – a sentence or two acknowledging that there could be some truth to the Counterargument
• Refutation (also called Rebuttal) – sentences which explain why the Counterargument is not as strong as the original Argument

Consult  Introductions & Titles for more on writing debatable thesis statements and  Paragraphs ~ Developing Support for more about developing your Argument.

Imagine that you are writing about vaping. After reading several articles and talking with friends about vaping, you decide that you are strongly opposed to it.

Which working thesis statement would be better?

• Vaping should be illegal because it can lead to serious health problems.

Many students do not like vaping.

Because the first option provides a debatable position, it is a better starting point for an Argument essay.

Next, you would need to draft several paragraphs to explain your position. These paragraphs could include facts that you learned in your research, such as statistics about vapers’ health problems, the cost of vaping, its effects on youth, its harmful effects on people nearby, and so on, as an appeal to logos . If you have a personal story about the effects of vaping, you might include that as well, either in a Body Paragraph or in your Introduction, as an appeal to pathos .

A strong Argument essay would not be complete with only your reasons in support of your position. You should also include a Counterargument, which will show your readers that you have carefully researched and considered both sides of your topic. This shows that you are taking a measured, scholarly approach to the topic – not an overly-emotional approach, or an approach which considers only one side. This helps to establish your ethos as the author. It shows your readers that you are thinking clearly and deeply about the topic, and your Concession (“this may be true”) acknowledges that you understand other opinions are possible.

Here are some ways to introduce a Counterargument:

• Some people believe that vaping is not as harmful as smoking cigarettes.
• Critics argue that vaping is safer than conventional cigarettes.
• On the other hand, one study has shown that vaping can help people quit smoking cigarettes.

Your paragraph would then go on to explain more about this position; you would give evidence here from your research about the point of view that opposes your own opinion.

Here are some ways to begin a Concession and Refutation:

• While this may be true for some adults, the risks of vaping for adolescents outweigh its benefits.
• Although these critics may have been correct before, new evidence shows that vaping is, in some cases, even more harmful than smoking.
• This may have been accurate for adults wishing to quit smoking; however, there are other methods available to help people stop using cigarettes.

Your paragraph would then continue your Refutation by explaining more reasons why the Counterargument is weak. This also serves to explain why your original Argument is strong. This is a good opportunity to prove to your readers that your original Argument is the most worthy, and to persuade them to agree with you.

Activity ~ Practice with Counterarguments, Concessions, and Refutations

A. Examine the following thesis statements with a partner. Is each one debatable?

B. Write  your own Counterargument, Concession, and Refutation for each thesis statement.

Thesis Statements:

• Online classes are a better option than face-to-face classes for college students who have full-time jobs.
• Students who engage in cyberbullying should be expelled from school.
• Unvaccinated children pose risks to those around them.
• Governments should be allowed to regulate internet access within their countries.

Is this chapter:

…too easy, or you would like more detail? Read “ Further Your Understanding: Refutation and Rebuttal ” from Lumen’s Writing Skills Lab.

Note: links open in new tabs.

reasoning, logic

emotion, feeling, beliefs

moral character, credibility, trust, authority

goes against; believes the opposite of something

ENGLISH 087: Academic Advanced Writing Copyright © 2020 by Nancy Hutchison is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Counter Argument in Essay Writing: How to Write a Good Counter Argument

Counterarguments oppose an author’s ideas, thoughts, beliefs, and opinions. These counterarguments are usually found in essays used in class or during specific examinations, thus requiring students to develop this particular skill.

And to develop an effective essay, you must be able to present your views and counter-arguments in a manner that does not leave your audience confused. But for many, this is not the case, and they find it challenging.

But not anymore. This post delves deeper to help you understand a counter-argument and how to write one, among other crucial details.

Here is the explanation.

What Is a Counter Argument

A counter-argument is a logical and rational way to disagree with an opposing viewpoint or assertion. In other words, it is a statement that opposes an argument developed in another article.

These arguments also attempt to disprove or question the validity of the original idea. It is important to note that this type of argument should be used only when there is insufficient evidence supporting the original claim or if you have new evidence.

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Further, counterarguments are used in many different situations. For example, if you are preparing for an argumentative essay or speech and need to find arguments against your position, you can use them.

Further, you can use these arguments when debating or in any other type of argument. When you give someone a counter-argument, you show them that there is more than one way to look at the situation and explain why their point of view is not the only one. You are attempting to show that what they say is not necessarily true and that they should consider other options.

Also see: How Do You Write a Toulmin Argumentative Essay

It’s important to note that counterarguments don’t always have to be negative. Sometimes they can be positive but negate the original statement.

How to Write a Good Counter Argument

Good counterarguments are based on solid research and thoughtful analysis. The best way to write a strong counter-argument is to do the following;

Be thorough

You should answer all of the points made by your opponent in their essay and explain why you don’t agree with those points.

For example, if someone says that people shouldn’t eat meat because it is unhealthy and is animal cruelty, you should address both points in your response. Explain the importance of eating meat and how it is not animal cruelty.

Provide enough evidence

In your arguments, include evidence from experts in your field. This will help bolster your credibility and make your view seem more convincing than if you were simply presenting personal opinions or subjective interpretations of facts.

You should clearly state the opposing position, include evidence to support it, and then explain why you disagree with this position based on your research and analysis of the evidence presented.

Be fair and objective

Being fair and objective when writing a counter-argument means that you should not attack the person or group you are writing about. Instead, you should focus on the issue in question. This makes your writing more persuasive to the reader.

It also means explaining why your position is correct, and your opponent’s wrong. You should not present your argument as the only possible or accurate one. Instead, define the several possible positions on an issue, and point out what those positions are.

You should also not ignore any part of your opponent’s position, even if it seems weak or wrong to you. For example, if your opponent states, “War is always bad,” you should acknowledge this and explain by saying, war is bad but sometimes justifiable and thus not always wrong.

Additionally, it would help if you did not misrepresent any position by taking things out of context.

Counter Argument Transition Words

When writing a counter-argument, it is vital to ensure that your argument is well-structured and organized. This means you must have a clear opening paragraph, evidence to support your claims, and a conclusion that summarizes everything.

However, you must use the correct words for your readers to follow your argument. These words are known as transitions, and they help you logically connect your ideas and allow the argument to flow smoothly. These transition words are used to connect one paragraph with another, as well as one sentence with another.

The following is a list of counter-argument transition words that can help you write a better counter-argument in your essay.

Moreover, however, conversely, moreover, nonetheless, on the other hand, although, despite this, nonetheless, on the contrary, yet, still, but, instead, in conclusion, to conclude, to sum up, and likewise.

You can also first, second, and thirdly to show how your points flow.

Counter Argument Sentence Starters

The easiest and most effective way to start a counter-argument sentence is by using inviting and “non-hostile” phrases. These can be phrases or words that you use to reference your opponent’s argument, which shows you have taken time to look at their points.

It is essential to understand that these sentence starters do not necessarily have to be negative or critical but can also be positive. The key is to use them to make your reader appreciate both points but still believe you.

Examples of counter-argument sentence starters can be, I  disagree, you are wrong, you are right, would you agree? “Why do you think so?” and “How come?”

Others include;

• What might be some reasons why?
• Are there certain circumstances that would make this accurate?
• How could this not be true?
• What would happen if we did not believe it?
• How accurate is this statement?

Do Synthesis Essays Need a Counter Argument

Synthesis essays require you to have a counter-argument to your thesis, especially in the first paragraph. A synthesis essay is an academic assignment that requires you to combine multiple sources into one coherent paper. When you are writing a synthesis essay, you will include both positive and negative arguments.

You can find multiple sources online or in your local library. Once you have all your information gathered, start by reading through each source and making notes of relevant points to your topic. This will help you see what each source says about the subject and how similar or different they are.

Finally, you should organize your notes and ideas into paragraph form to flow smoothly while making sense. Once this is done, it’s time to write your counter-argument paragraph.

Does an Argumentative Essay Need a Counter Argument

An argumentative essay needs you to have a counter-argument. This is because you are required to write a paper that presents your thesis and then backs it up with evidence, and the counter-argument is a part of this process.

It is the other side of the story. The idea here is that you present an argument but then offer another point of view on the same topic in the counter-argument section. This can be done in many ways, but it should always be backed up by evidence from your research.

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing that presents a position and then defends it with evidence and reasoning. The essay’s purpose is to convince the reader that the author’s point of view is correct. However, it also has the counter-argument section, with responses to an existing idea and clearly shows the alternative point of view.

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4.5 Identifying Concessions and Counter Arguments

Learning objectives.

• Identify the parts of a reasonable concession
• Evaluate paragraphs for concessions
• Apply concession format to a series of sentences

Let’s take some time to learn how to concede logical points and then to counter them appropriately. These skills are INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT. Oftentimes, only the strongest and most confident writers can write in a concession-style. Your use of concession-style thesis statements, and concessions throughout a response, signals to your readers that you are a confident and capable writer and critical thinker. Concessions are invaluable to DISCOURSE and DIALOGUE, the two most important parts of responsible argumentation.

The purpose behind this chapter and its activities is to teach you how to concede strong points, and more importantly, how to counter them effectively.  Students new to writing arguments often think that including concessions will weaken their argument or that a reader will be more likely to agree with them if they pretend that no weaknesses exist in the argument. This assumption is untrue. In fact, your willingness to admit where the prompt writer’s argument has value and either present an extension of that argument or move it in a different direction is really impressive.

What is more, you will be learning to grow comfortable in conceding that your own argument might have limitations. All arguments have limitations, whether they belong to a prompt writer or to you. Remember the final instruction given to you before all prompt responses?

Your essay should also consider at least one objection a reader might have to  your  argument. You may respond to this objection in different ways. For example, you may argue against the objection, or you may acknowledge that the objection is a good point and incorporate it into your argument. It’s up to you.

At a very basic level, the purpose behind learning counter-arguments is because the prompt instructions on each prompt ask you to do so.  The goal of that instruction is to teach you how to strengthen your argument.  Acknowledging weaker points (or strong points from your opposition) makes your writing more compelling because it demonstrates to your reader that 1) you have actually considered the topic without making snap judgments, and 2) you are not hiding the weaknesses of your argument from your reader, hoping that they will miss them.

More importantly, it creates an honest relationship between you and your reader, which is essential because some audiences will know something about the topic of your argument already, and they could have oppositions to offer.  Ultimately, you need to learn how to concede and counter in writing because you cannot respond to a reader’s objections verbally, as you might in a conversation.  The greater challenge is to anticipate the objections and respond to them before they come up. This strategy is akin to an artist writing a diss track in which they not only identify faults in their rival, but also in themselves. What ammunition is left for their rival in response? When you “anticipate and defend,” there is little left for the opposition. It is a proven strategy.

To begin the process, we need to understand how to make reasonable concessions first.  It’s likely that you may have already learned how to make one of these two types of concessions early in your WRIT course, but let’s look over them again.

First, read the following prompt below.  You can also Download a PDF version , if you prefer.

Drink Your Way to Success Randolph Hennepin

The following editorial appeared in the May/June 2014 issue of Today’s Student

     Success in just about any profession often depends on a person’s ability to network, and to develop contacts. A prime way to network is over drinks. In fact, a person who does not drink is less likely to be successful than one who does . Students who spend time drinking rather than studying are ensuring their eventual success.

     Facts are facts. A recent study “found drinkers earn between 10 and 14 per cent more than non-drinkers.” Further, according to the same study, men who go to a bar at least once a month earn an additional 7 per cent. The reason for the success of drinkers, according to the author of the study, is that “Social drinking builds social capital. Social drinkers are networking, building relationships and adding contacts to their [phones] that result in bigger paycheques.”

     Perhaps this study is not good news for people who do not drink. Perhaps these people feel that there are other ways to develop contacts, such as getting involved in charitable organizations or meeting colleagues for breakfast instead of in a bar after work. While these strategies do have merit, neither is as effective as the social networking that occurs while drinking.

     In fact, a reasonable conclusion from this study would be to encourage students to learn how to drink. Knowing how to drink without embarrassing oneself is a key skill in business, as the above study proves. Therefore, students should not feel guilty about spending evenings drinking instead of working or studying, since drinking will lead to their eventual success. Students should not focus on school other than to do well enough to pass; otherwise, they are doomed to earn less than their peers who put their study time to good use by hitting the bottle.

Now, look at these straightforward responses to the prompt and determine which one uses a  general concession,  and which one uses a  specific concession .

• Introduction: Version 1
• Introduction: Version 2

Activity 1: Identifying Concessions

Which introduction in the above example uses a more specific concession? Vote on your choice below and then view the results. Click  the accordion below to learn more.

The next section includes practice activities for concessions and counterarguments.

Putting the Pieces Together Copyright © 2020 by Andrew Stracuzzi and André Cormier is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How to Write a Counter Argument: A Step-by-Step Guide

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A counter argument is a crucial element in debates and persuasive essays. It adds depth and complexity to an argument by considering different perspectives and opposing viewpoints. Incorporating a counter argument strengthens your position, demonstrates logical reasoning, and shows that you have critically evaluated the topic. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to writing a compelling counter argument.

Understanding Counter Arguments

Definition of a counter argument.

Before delving into the specifics of writing a counter argument, it's important to understand what it is. A counter argument is an opposing argument to the one you are presenting. It's a statement that challenges or disagrees with your main argument. It's not simply a contradiction, but an informed and well-supported statement that offers a contrasting viewpoint.

For example, if you were arguing in favor of stricter gun control laws, a counter argument might be that such laws infringe upon an individual's Second Amendment rights. This counter argument acknowledges the opposing viewpoint and presents a valid argument against your position.

It's important to note that counter arguments should not be dismissed or ignored. Rather, they should be addressed and refuted with evidence and logical reasoning.

Importance of Counter Arguments in Debates and Essays

Counter arguments are essential in debates and persuasive essays as they provide an opportunity to explore the topic from different angles, anticipate objections, refute opposing views, and strengthen your own argument. They show that you have a comprehensive understanding of the topic and have considered all perspectives.

Furthermore, counter arguments can actually strengthen your own argument. By addressing and refuting opposing views, you demonstrate that you have thoroughly researched the topic and have a deep understanding of the subject matter. This can lend credibility to your argument and make it more persuasive.

Additionally, including counter arguments in your writing shows that you are open-minded and willing to consider different viewpoints. This can help you connect with readers who may have differing opinions and increase the likelihood that they will be receptive to your argument.

In conclusion, understanding and effectively utilizing counter arguments is an important aspect of persuasive writing. By acknowledging opposing viewpoints and addressing them with evidence and logic, you can strengthen your own argument and make it more persuasive.

Identifying the Main Argument

When it comes to writing a counter argument, the first step is to identify the main argument that you are opposing. This may seem like an easy task, but it can be quite challenging, especially if the argument is complex. The main argument is usually found in the thesis statement of the essay or debate. The thesis statement is a concise summary of the author's main argument or position. It is the backbone of the entire piece of writing and sets the tone for the rest of the essay or debate.

Analyzing the Thesis Statement

Once you have located the thesis statement, it is important to analyze it carefully. You need to understand what the author is trying to argue and what position they are taking. This will help you to form a clear and concise counter argument. To analyze the thesis statement, you should ask yourself a series of questions. What is the author's main argument? What evidence do they use to support their argument? What assumptions do they make? What are the implications of their argument?

By answering these questions, you will gain a deeper understanding of the author's position and be better equipped to craft a persuasive counter argument.

Recognizing Supporting Points

Once you have a clear understanding of the author's main argument, it is time to identify the supporting points that they present in the essay or debate. Supporting points are the specific examples, facts, or statistics that the author uses to bolster their main argument. By recognizing these supporting points, you will be able to evaluate the strength of the opposing argument and determine which points you need to address in your counter argument.

It is important to note that not all supporting points are created equal. Some may be more convincing than others, and some may be based on faulty reasoning or incomplete information. It is your job as the counter argument writer to carefully evaluate each supporting point and determine its validity.

In conclusion, identifying the main argument and recognizing supporting points are crucial steps in writing a strong counter argument. By taking the time to analyze the thesis statement and evaluate the supporting points, you will be able to craft a persuasive and effective counter argument that challenges the author's position and offers a compelling alternative viewpoint.

Researching Opposing Views

Finding credible sources.

Once you have analyzed the main argument, it's time to research different perspectives and opposing views. This will help you to build a more comprehensive understanding of the topic and to find evidence to support your own counter argument. It's important to find credible sources that are reliable and unbiased.

Evaluating the Strength of Opposing Arguments

When conducting research, it's important to evaluate the strength of the opposing arguments. This will help you to anticipate objections and strengthen your own counter argument. Evaluate the evidence presented in the opposing argument and consider its relevance, reliability, and strength.

Formulating Your Counter Argument

Addressing the opposing view.

The first step in formulating your counter argument is to address the opposing view. This means acknowledging the main argument and explaining why you disagree with it. Be clear and concise in your explanation and support your position with evidence and logic.

Providing Evidence to Support Your Counter Argument

Once you have addressed the opposing view, it's time to provide evidence to support your own counter argument. This could include statistics, expert opinions, case studies, or personal experiences. Make sure that your evidence is credible and relevant to the topic at hand.

Demonstrating Logical Reasoning

It's essential to demonstrate logical reasoning in your counter argument. This means explaining the logical steps you have taken to arrive at your position and using clear and concise language to articulate your views. Avoid emotional language and stick to the facts to make your argument more persuasive.

Incorporating Counter Arguments in Your Writing

Choosing the right placement.

The placement of your counter argument is crucial to its effectiveness. You should place it in a strategic location in your essay or debate where it will have the most impact. This could be at the beginning of the essay, in the body paragraphs, or at the end of the essay.

Balancing Your Argument and Counter Argument

It's important to strike a balance between your main argument and your counter argument. Your counter argument should not overwhelm your main argument, but rather enhance it. Make sure that your counter argument is presented in a way that is respectful to the opposing view and that it strengthens your own position.

Using Transitions for Clarity and Flow

Finally, use transitions to ensure that your counter argument flows smoothly and is easy to follow. Transitions are words or phrases that connect ideas and paragraphs, making your argument more cohesive. Examples of transitions include "however," "on the other hand," "in contrast," and "nevertheless."

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Counter Argument

Use the following prompt in an AI chatbot . Below each prompt, be sure to provide additional details about your situation. These could be scratch notes, what you'd like to say or anything else that guides the AI model to write a certain way.

Compose a written response that presents a viewpoint opposing the original argument, providing evidence and reasoning to support your position.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

By following these steps, you can write a compelling counter argument that adds depth and complexity to your essay or debate. A strong counter argument shows that you have thoroughly researched the topic, evaluated all perspectives, and arrived at a logical and well-supported position. Use these guidelines to write a counter argument that is convincing, well-reasoned, and enhances your overall argument.

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How To Write A Counter Argument Properly?

How to write a counter argument is a bit tricky question as it is a viewpoint that opposes your main argument. In fact the English Cambridge dictionary gives the counter argument definition as an argument against another argument. The counter argument meaning is to understand your own argument better. This type of essay will allow you to think about the problem as a whole rather than just your idea of it.

Counter argument words go against your thesis, but while it may seem that acknowledging your opponent’s argument would undermine your own argument, these counter-arguments can actually fortify your strength of view if done the right way. How to start counter argument requires you to know your topic well so that you can look at both sides of the issue.

Your topic might be dogs, and an example of this might be you arguing that dogs make better pets than cats. This is because they show their feelings more. You argue that cats make better pets because they’re more able to care for themselves. Your take is a counterargument to the fact that dogs make better pets.

What Is A Counter-Argument?

When you’ve got an argument like the one described above, you can make your argument stronger by showing that you respect the other person’s point of view, and that you have actually thought about their argument before coming to your position. You understand the reasons why someone might disagree with you.

Other typical counter argument examples might be making the case that cell phones allowed at school are disruptive. This is because students are responding to the cell phone’s constant rings and messages.

A counter statement might be that cell phones in classrooms can actually be beneficial because then students have instant access to research. This is particularly true in a school where there may not be enough money to buy computers for the students.

If you’re still not convinced about how to write a counter argument essay, don’t stress as we have profesional essay writers that will write you a counter argument example essay and bring in the marks you require to pass well.

They will also show you how to start a counter argument sentence, and the counter argument essay examples will tell you everything you need to know. They’ll explain what’s a counter argument, what counter argument sentence starters to use and also how to prepare a counter argument paragraph outline.

The Counter Argument Paragraph

When writing your counterargument paragraph, how to write counter argument will require you responding to your other position and identifying the opposing argument. You’ll be responding to it by giving the reasons the argument is weak and providing examples to show why the opposing argument is unsound. You can then state your own argument and why it is stronger than the counterargument.

Your counter statement can appear anywhere in your essay, but a counter-argument essay example will show you that it commonly appears as part of your introduction — before proposing your thesis. A counter-argument is essentially an argument that is opposed to your thesis, expressing the view of a person who disagrees with your position. A counter argument synonym might be a rebuttal, counter-attack, disclaimer or counter statement.

There are plenty of counter argument transitions in these essays too – counter argument transition words or phrases that link ideas. These words can be used to show two things are similar to each other, so when you’re adding information you might want to use the following transition words among others:

• not to mention
• by the same token

How To Start A Counter Argument

How you start a counter argument will depend on your subject, but in your first sentence you could state the topic you are discussing. For instance, pit bulls are a controversial topic and your argument could be that pit bulls are safe dogs to keep when brought up properly.

The counter argument will be based on stats that prove that they’re aggressive dogs, and your rebuttal would then be that such aggressive behavior from these dogs comes from aggressive dog owners who raise their dogs the wrong way.

Your counter argument will alert the reader that the paper will express a view different from the thesis. The purpose of the paper, together with the counter-argument, is to support the thesis.

How to introduce a counter argument? This should be done in a way that your reader knows that the view you want to convey isn’t one that you’re 100% in agreement with. Simple ways are to start a sentence with are ‘however’ or ‘but’.

You can use the following counter argument starters in your essay to incorporate rebuttals in your writing:

• Even though
• In spite of the fact that..
• A possible concern is ..
• That is a concern, however…

With an argumentative paper, including a counterargument paragraph shows that you understand that other positions exist. With a persuasive essay you provide a view on your topic and the idea is to persuade your reader to your way of thinking.

By providing counter arguments, you show the professor that you have also considered the flaws in your pro-arguments. With a counter argument example you will see that the first few lines describe your purpose of your persuasive essay – your thesis statement. Once the general idea of the introduction is written down, you move to the body and related counter arguments. With persuasive writing you have to know how to write a counter argument.

A student may well believe that a counterargument would weaken their argument as they’re giving the other side some ammunition, but a counterargument does the opposite and strengthens your argument, showing you’ve done research and have grasped both sides of the argument.

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How to Introduce a Counterargument in an Essay

November 17, 2023

When writing an essay or argumentative piece, it is important to present a balanced argument that takes into consideration opposing viewpoints. This is where the counterargument comes into play. Essentially, introducing a counterargument means anticipating any potential objections or contrary arguments that may arise, and addressing them proactively within your own essay. While some writers may be hesitant to include counterarguments for fear of weakening their own stance, it is essential to consider counterarguments in order to present a persuasive and well-rounded argument.

By addressing potential objections, a writer can strengthen their own argument by demonstrating that they have considered alternative perspectives and are able to provide compelling evidence and reasoning to support their own viewpoint. Additionally, acknowledging counterarguments can also help establish credibility and build trust with the reader, as it shows that the writer has done their research and is willing to consider different viewpoints. Ultimately, including counterarguments can lead to a more effective and convincing essay overall.

Make your essays better with our AI essay generator . It effortlessly adds strong counterarguments to improve your writing and help you get better grades.

Identifying and understanding counterarguments

When it comes to identifying and understanding counterarguments, it is essential to thoroughly research and analyze different perspectives. Here are a few key steps to help you effectively introduce counterarguments in your essay:

• Research opposing viewpoints: Take the time to explore different sources and gather information on arguments that challenge your own. Look for reliable sources that present contrasting ideas and evidence.
• Analyze the counterarguments: Carefully examine the opposing viewpoints and identify their main claims. Break down each argument and understand the underlying reasoning behind it. This will help you address the counterarguments more effectively.
• Consider different perspectives: Put yourself in the shoes of someone who disagrees with your argument. Try to understand their motivations, values, and concerns. This empathetic approach will enable you to present counterarguments more convincingly by demonstrating that you have genuinely considered alternative viewpoints.
• Anticipate objections: Think critically about the potential objections that readers may have to your argument. Consider factors such as bias, evidence, logical fallacies, and emotional appeals that may be present in counterarguments.
• Address counterarguments strategically: Introduce counterarguments in an objective and respectful manner. Refute them with strong evidence, logical reasoning, and alternative interpretations. By doing so, you can demonstrate the weaknesses in opposing viewpoints and reinforce the strength of your own argument.

Remember, the goal is not to simply dismiss counterarguments, but to acknowledge and engage with them thoughtfully. By effectively introducing and addressing counterarguments, you can present a more well-rounded and persuasive essay.

Strengthening your argument by acknowledging counterarguments

Acknowledging and addressing counterarguments in your essay can actually strengthen your overall argument. Here are a few ways in which considering counterarguments can enhance your persuasive writing:

• Demonstrating knowledge and research: By incorporating counterarguments, you show that you have extensively researched the topic and are aware of alternative viewpoints. This adds credibility to your argument and positions you as a knowledgeable writer.
• Anticipating and preemptively countering objections: When you address counterarguments head-on, you can proactively address any doubts or objections your readers may have. This demonstrates that you have considered different perspectives and are prepared to provide strong evidence and reasoning to support your own stance.
• Presenting a balanced perspective: Introducing counterarguments reflects an open-minded approach, which can resonate with readers. It shows that you are willing to consider other opinions and have a balanced view of the topic. This can help build trust and make your argument more persuasive.
• Strengthening your own argument: By addressing counterarguments and providing solid rebuttals, you can strengthen your own position. It allows you to highlight the weaknesses or flaws in opposing viewpoints, further bolstering the strength of your argument.
• Engaging and persuading the reader: When you acknowledge counterarguments, you show respect for differing opinions. This can lead to a more engaged and receptive audience, as readers feel that their concerns are being acknowledged and addressed.

Incorporating counterarguments in your essay demonstrates critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the topic. By skillfully addressing alternative viewpoints, you can make a more compelling and persuasive argument overall.

Introducing the counterargument effectively

Effectively introducing the counterargument in your essay is crucial for a strong and persuasive piece of writing. Here are some key strategies to consider:

• Present the counterargument objectively: Introduce the counterargument in a fair and unbiased manner. Avoid any dismissive or confrontational language that may alienate readers.
• Provide context and background: Set the stage for the counterargument by providing some context and explaining why it is relevant to the topic. This helps readers understand the broader discussion and why the counterargument needs to be addressed.
• Use transitional phrases: Signal the introduction of the counterargument with phrases like “some may argue,” “opponents may contend,” or “it is commonly believed.” This helps readers recognize that you are about to present an opposing viewpoint.
• State the counterargument clearly: Clearly articulate the counterargument, ensuring that readers understand what position you are addressing.
• Support the counterargument: Present the evidence, examples, or reasoning that supports the counterargument. This helps validate its relevance and shows that you have thoroughly considered opposing viewpoints.
• Analyze the counterargument: Critically evaluate the counterargument by identifying any weaknesses, inconsistencies, or biases. Point out any assumptions or fallacies that undermine its validity.
• Refute the counterargument: After presenting and analyzing the counterargument, provide a strong rebuttal. Use evidence, logical reasoning, and alternative interpretations to dismantle the counterargument and reinforce your own stance.

By introducing the counterargument effectively, you create a strong foundation for engaging with opposing viewpoints while solidifying your own argument. This approach not only strengthens your essay, but also demonstrates your ability to think critically and persuasively.

Addressing the counterargument with evidence and reasoning

Addressing the counterargument with evidence and reasoning is a crucial step in effectively introducing a counterargument in your essay. Here are some tips for effectively addressing the counterargument:

• Provide evidence: Use factual evidence from reliable sources to support your own position. This evidence can include statistics, research findings, expert opinions, or real-life examples. By presenting solid evidence, you can undermine the validity of the counterargument and strengthen your own case.
• Use logical reasoning: Employ logical reasoning to logically refute the counterargument. Point out any flaws, inconsistencies, or false assumptions within the counterargument. Highlight logical fallacies, such as ad hominem attacks or sweeping generalizations. By applying sound logic, you can demonstrate the weaknesses in the opposing viewpoint.
• Offer alternative interpretations: Present alternative perspectives or interpretations that support your own argument. Show how your interpretation better aligns with the evidence and reasoning. By offering an alternative viewpoint, you showcase your ability to think critically and provide a strong rationale for your own argument.
• Address potential counter-counterarguments: Anticipate any rebuttals to your own argument and address them proactively. By acknowledging potential counter-counterarguments, you demonstrate that you have considered different perspectives and are prepared to defend your position.

By addressing the counterargument with evidence and reasoning, you not only discredit opposing viewpoints but also strengthen the overall validity of your argument. This approach adds depth and persuasiveness to your essay, ultimately leading to a more compelling and well-supported argument.

Anticipating and responding to potential objections

Anticipating and responding to potential objections is an important aspect of effectively introducing a counterargument in your essay. By being proactive and addressing possible objections, you can strengthen your argument and address any doubts or concerns the reader may have. Here are some strategies to help you anticipate and respond to potential objections:

• Put yourself in the reader’s shoes: Consider the perspective of your audience and think about any objections or concerns they may have. This empathetic approach allows you to preemptively address their potential objections.
• Research common objections: Conduct thorough research to identify common objections or criticisms related to your argument. This will help you prepare articulate responses and counterarguments.
• Provide counter-evidence: Gather additional evidence that directly refutes potential objections. This can include studies, expert opinions, or data that contradict the counterargument. Presenting strong evidence will help convince the reader of the validity of your stance.
• Address underlying assumptions: Identify any underlying assumptions within potential objections and challenge them. By exposing faulty assumptions or biases, you can weaken the counterargument and reinforce the strength of your own position.
• Offer concessions: Acknowledge valid points within the counterargument and offer concessions where appropriate. This shows that you are fair-minded and open to considering other perspectives, while still maintaining the overall superiority of your own argument.
• Provide logical reasoning: Use logical reasoning to explain why the objections raised by the counterargument are flawed or do not hold up under scrutiny. Point out any logical fallacies or inconsistencies to demonstrate the weaknesses in the counterargument.

By anticipating and responding to potential objections, you demonstrate a comprehensive and thoughtful analysis of your topic. This approach strengthens your overall argument and further persuades the reader to consider your point of view.

Avoiding common pitfalls when introducing counterarguments

When introducing counterarguments in your essay, it is important to be mindful of common pitfalls that can undermine the effectiveness of your argument. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Straw man fallacy: Do not misrepresent or oversimplify the counterargument. Address the strongest and most relevant points, rather than creating a weaker version of the opposing viewpoint.
• Lack of balance: Strive to maintain a balanced approach when introducing counterarguments. Avoid presenting only the counterargument while neglecting to reinforce your own position.
• Weak or incomplete counterarguments: Ensure that the counterargument you present is substantive and addresses the main points of contention. Weak or irrelevant counterarguments can weaken your credibility and the overall strength of your argument.
• Lack of evidence: Support your counterargument with evidence and reasoning to validate its relevance. Failing to provide evidence for the counterargument can undermine its credibility.
• Oversimplification: Avoid oversimplifying the complexities of the counterargument or the overall debate. Acknowledge and address the nuances and multiple perspectives involved in the topic.
• Emotional language or personal attacks: Maintain a calm and professional tone when discussing the counterargument. Refrain from using emotional language or engaging in personal attacks, as this undermines the integrity of your argument.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you can ensure that your introduction of counterarguments is strong, credible, and persuasive. This approach will contribute to a more well-rounded and comprehensive essay.

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For Biden, Aid Package Provides a Welcome Boost on the World Stage

The congressional breakthrough on security assistance to Ukraine and Israel will let the president finally deliver arms to match his words. But it could be only a temporary respite.

• Share full article

By Peter Baker

Peter Baker, a longtime White House reporter, has also been a correspondent based in Moscow and Jerusalem.

Finally, President Biden had good news to share with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. When Mr. Biden picked up the telephone at his home in Wilmington, Del., to call Mr. Zelensky on Monday, the two rejoiced over the congressional breakthrough that will result in the first significant new U.S. military aid for Ukraine in 16 months.

Mr. Biden used the 30-minute call to “underscore the United States’ lasting commitment to supporting Ukraine” against Russian invaders and promise that arms will start flowing again “quickly,” according to a White House statement. For a grateful Mr. Zelensky, the timing was propitious. A Russian missile attack, he told Mr. Biden, had just destroyed the television tower in Kharkiv.

The House passage of a landmark $95 billion foreign aid package gives Mr. Biden much-needed momentum at a time when his credibility and American leadership have been questioned on the world stage. For months, the president has vowed unstinting support for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan without being able to deliver on Capitol Hill. Now, at last, he has planeloads of artillery rounds, air defense missiles and other munitions to back up his words.

“This was a historic win for President Biden and for America’s global leadership,” Senator Chris Van Hollen, Democrat of Maryland, said in an interview. “This was a moment when both our allies and our adversaries were watching to see if we would deliver for the people of Ukraine in their moment of need.”

Michael Allen, a former national security aide to President George W. Bush, said the aid would counter international worries about the United States for now but added that Mr. Biden should use it to press American allies to take more of a leadership role.

“It’s a win for the U.S. after months of talk about America’s lost its way, beset by populism and isolationism,” he said. “Biden now has new political capital, if he’ll use it, to browbeat more Europeans into more assistance for Ukraine and NATO.”

The sense of relief among officials at the White House has been palpable since the House voted on Saturday by lopsided bipartisan majorities for the package , which includes $61 billion for Ukraine; $26 billion for Israel and humanitarian aid in conflict zones like Gaza; and $8 billion for the Indo-Pacific region. Not only had they finally broken through the aid logjam, but they also held out hopes that they had averted a wider war in the Middle East, at least for now.

The Israeli-American defense of Israel that, with help from European and Arab allies, knocked down nearly all of an Iranian bombardment demonstrated a powerful regional alignment against Tehran. Israel’s decision to defer to Mr. Biden’s pleas for restraint by making only a token reprisal allowed both sides to back off what could have escalated into a full-fledged regional conflagration.

Biden administration officials spotted at events around Washington over the weekend were in demonstrably better moods than they have been in months. Instead of being virtually locked in the Situation Room around the clock, as they have been so much in recent days, some stressed and exhausted national security officials even managed to take a few hours off to participate in a lighthearted tennis tournament called the Kangaroo Cup at the residence of Kevin Rudd, the Australian ambassador.

But as important as the passage of security aid was, some officials and analysts still fear that it will only be a temporary respite as former President Donald J. Trump waits in the wings. If he wins in November, Mr. Trump, who has long expressed admiration for President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, has made clear that he would not back Ukraine.

In fact, he has said that he would encourage Russia to attack NATO members that do not spend enough on their own militaries, a comment that raised alarms in European capitals about the future of the 75-year-old alliance. Nor did it go unnoticed that while every House Democrat voted for the Ukraine aid, more Republicans voted against it than for it .

“While I do think the aid bill has restored some confidence again in the United States and our ability to actually get some things done even in a deeply divided Congress, there is still some fear, understandably, as to whether this is the last tranche of support they will ever get,” said Kathryn Stoner, a Russia scholar at Stanford University. And in conversations with Ukrainian political and civic leaders, she said she found “a renewed awareness of the fact that things could get much worse for Ukraine if Trump is elected in November.”

The degree of concern among American allies has been striking. In conversations and interviews in recent months, government officials in a dozen European countries, including cabinet members and prime ministers from across the political spectrum, without exception expressed worry and in some cases near panic over the prospect that Mr. Trump would return to the White House. Some are already discussing how Europe may have to fend for itself without being able to rely on the United States.

Mr. Trump has made clear even in recent days that he is more intent on pressuring America’s friends than he is Mr. Putin. While he did not step in to stop Speaker Mike Johnson from shepherding the Ukraine aid through the House, Mr. Trump did signal that he thinks the United States is bearing too much of the burden.

“Why can’t Europe equalize or match the money put in by the United States of America in order to help a Country in desperate need,” he wrote on social media last week.

In fact, until the new aid package now making its way to Mr. Biden’s desk, Europe had committed more to Ukraine than the United States had. As of January, European Union institutions had dedicated $93.2 billion, compared with $74.3 billion by the United States in total military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, according to figures compiled by the Council on Foreign Relations .

Just in terms of military aid, Germany, Britain and a dozen other European nations have cumulatively contributed $60.4 billion to $46.3 billion by the United States. Judging total aid as a share of each country’s own economy, the United States was the 20th highest contributor behind 17 European countries, the European Union and Canada.

Elbridge Colby, a former Pentagon official who is considered a possible national security appointee in a new Trump administration, said the former president wants Europe to stand up for itself. “President Trump’s argument was actually that Europe’s interests in Ukraine are greater than ours, which is clearly true,” he wrote on social media . “They should naturally take the lead given that America’s stated priority is China, which we’re unprepared for.”

The last major Ukraine aid package passed Congress in December 2022, when Democrats were in their final weeks of control. Mr. Biden has been seeking additional Ukraine aid since August and included money for Indo-Pacific priorities to counter China as well. He added aid for Israel to his request in October after the Hamas-led terrorist attack that Israeli authorities say killed about 1,200 people. The package that passed on Saturday also includes money for humanitarian relief in places like Gaza, where local health authorities say more than 33,000 have been killed during Israel’s military operation against Hamas.

The Senate plans to pass it this week and send it to Mr. Biden for his signature. In addition to Mr. Zelensky, the president on Monday called Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, to stress “how sustained international support is vital to Ukraine’s fight for freedom,” according to a White House statement.

The celebratory spirit in the White House, the Pentagon, the State Department and much of Congress reflected what a heavy lift it was for the president and his allies. While Mr. Biden’s advisers were long supremely confident that they would eventually get the money to fight Russia, there were many moments when it looked like it would not happen.

The danger for the president’s credibility was considerable. Mr. Biden, who since Russia’s all-out invasion in 2022 had vowed to stand with Ukraine for “as long as it takes,” had begun shifting his wording to promise support for “as long as we can.” Now he can for a little while longer.

Peter Baker is the chief White House correspondent for The Times. He has covered the last five presidents and sometimes writes analytical pieces that place presidents and their administrations in a larger context and historical framework. More about Peter Baker

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

The authorities in Poland and Germany have arrested at least five of their citizens  and accused them of spying for Russia or of offering to help Moscow commit violence on European soil, including a “possible attack” on the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.

The drone combat in Ukraine that is transforming modern warfare has begun taking a deadly toll on one of the most powerful symbols  of American military might — the tank — and threatening to rewrite how it will be used in future conflicts.

At least 17 people were killed and scores more injured when three Russian missiles struck a busy downtown district of Chernihiv , north of Kyiv, Ukrainian officials said.

Resuming U.S. Military Aid: Much-needed munitions like artillery shells could start arriving relatively quickly , but experts say it could take weeks before U.S. assistance has a direct impact on the war . What would $60 billion buy ?

A Race to Hold the Line: The days of lightning battlefield breakthroughs  may be over. With Russia preparing to make a big push, the Ukrainians can do little but dig in.

Life in Ukrainian Villages: Russian assaults have all but destroyed the factories and plants that were the economic lifeblood  of the towns and cities in Ukraine’s east.

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