What Does “Argue sb into doing sth” Mean?
“Argue sb into doing sth” means to persuade someone to do something by giving reasons or discussing it with them.
Introduction
The phrase “Argue sb into doing sth” is a useful English expression that shows how someone can convince another person to take action through logical reasoning or debate. The “sb” stands for “somebody,” and “sth” means “something.” When you argue someone into doing something, you use words and explanations rather than force or orders. Understanding the “Argue sb into doing sth” meaning helps you communicate more effectively and politely in both personal and professional settings. This phrasal verb is common in spoken and written English and is often used when someone changes their mind after a discussion.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: Argue sb into doing sth (argue somebody into doing something)
- Type: Transitive
- Level: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
- Short meaning: To persuade someone to do something by reasoning
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Argue sb into doing sth” is a separable phrasal verb with the following pattern:
- Argue + somebody + into + verb-ing (gerund)
Example: “She argued him into joining the club.”
Note that you must use the gerund (verb + -ing) after “into.”
How to Use “Argue sb into doing sth”?
Use this phrase when you want to describe convincing someone to do something through discussion or reasoning. It often implies a gentle or patient persuasion rather than force.
You can use it in various contexts, such as persuading friends, family, or colleagues. Remember to always follow “into” with a verb ending in -ing.
Examples
- He argued his parents into letting him go on the trip.
- They argued her into accepting the job offer.
- We argued him into trying the new restaurant.
- She argued her boss into approving the project.
- Can you argue me into changing my mind?
Here are “Argue sb into doing sth” in a sentence: “After a long talk, I finally argued my friend into helping me.”
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: She argued him to do it.
- Correct: She argued him into doing it.
- Incorrect: They argued me for joining the team.
- Correct: They argued me into joining the team.
Remember, “argue” must be followed by “into” + verb-ing, not “to” + base verb.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrasal verbs include:
- Talk sb into doing sth: Also means to persuade by talking but is more informal.
- Persuade sb to do sth: More formal and direct than “argue sb into doing sth.”
- Convince sb to do sth: Focuses on changing someone’s belief or opinion.
While “argue sb into doing sth” highlights reasoning and discussion, “talk sb into doing sth” is more casual. “Persuade” and “convince” can be used more broadly.
Common Collocations
- Argue someone into agreeing
- Argue someone into staying
- Argue someone into helping
- Argue someone into buying
- Argue someone into changing their mind
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of argue sb into doing sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: I don’t want to go to the party tonight.
Ben: Come on, I can argue you into going! It will be fun, and you’ll meet new people.
Anna: Hmm, maybe you’re right. Okay, I’ll go.
Practice
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb:
- She argued her brother ______ (help) her with the homework.
- We argued them ______ (stay) a little longer at the event.
- He argued his boss ______ (approve) the new plan.
FAQs
- Q: Can I use “argue sb to do sth”?
A: No, the correct form is “argue sb into doing sth.”
- Q: Is “argue sb into doing sth” formal?
A: It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- Q: What does “sb” and “sth” mean?
A: “sb” means somebody; “sth” means something.
- Q: Can I use this phrase in writing?
A: Yes, it is common in both spoken and written English.
- Q: What verb form follows “into”?
A: Always use the verb in the -ing form (gerund) after “into.”
