7.2 Considering how words, phrases, and clauses can modify and limit an argument

5 min read•february 13, 2023

Sylvia Rodriguez

AP English Language ✍🏽

224 resources

See Units

Introduction to 7.2

Overview of considering the impact of language in arguments:

Language plays a critical role in shaping and conveying arguments. It can be used to clarify or obscure meaning, emphasize certain points, and influence the audience's perception of the argument. Therefore, it is essential to consider the impact of language when analyzing and evaluating arguments.

Explanation of why it is important to analyze the words, phrases, and clauses used in an argument:

Analyzing the words, phrases, and clauses used in an argument is crucial for understanding the meaning and impact of the argument. It allows you to identify any biases, assumptions, or misleading language that may be present. Additionally, it helps you to evaluate the effectiveness and persuasiveness of the argument, as well as its strengths and weaknesses. This can be especially important in determining whether an argument is credible, logical, and well-supported. By examining the language used in an argument, you can gain a deeper understanding of the argument and make more informed judgments about its validity and persuasiveness.

Words, Phrases, and Clauses in Arguments

The role of words, phrases, and clauses in modifying and limiting an argument

Words, phrases, and clauses play a critical role in arguments. They are used to modify and limit an argument, shaping its meaning and impact. By understanding the role of these elements of language, one can analyze and evaluate arguments more effectively.

Words, phrases, and clauses can modify and limit an argument in a variety of ways. For example, words can be used to clarify or emphasize a point, while clauses can be used to provide specific details or conditions. Phrases can be used to create tone, such as sarcasm or irony, and can also be used to qualify or limit the scope of an argument.

How to identify different types of words, phrases, and clauses used in an argument

An example of how words, phrases, and clauses can modify and limit an argument can be seen in the following statement: "Although some people believe that dogs make better pets than cats, others argue that cats are more low-maintenance and independent."

In this statement, the word "although" modifies the argument by acknowledging the opposing viewpoint. The phrase "some people believe" and "others argue" also limits the argument by acknowledging that not everyone holds the same viewpoint. The clause "that cats are more low-maintenance and independent" limits the argument further by specifying the counterargument. By examining these words, phrases, and clauses, we can better understand the strengths and limitations of the argument.

Examining the impact of language in arguments

How words, phrases, and clauses can shape the meaning and impact of an argument

A specific example of how words, phrases, and clauses can shape the meaning and impact of an argument can be seen in the sentence "John is a thief." The word "thief" has a strong connotation and immediately creates a negative image of John, limiting the argument to one perspective. However, if the sentence is changed to "John is accused of theft," the meaning and impact of the argument is modified. The use of the phrase "accused of" allows for the consideration of multiple perspectives and a more nuanced view of the situation. This highlights the importance of examining the words, phrases, and clauses used in an argument to fully understand the impact and meaning being conveyed.

Analysis of specific examples of how words, phrases, and clauses can modify and limit an argument

In analyzing the impact of language in arguments, it is important to examine the specific words, phrases, and clauses used in the argument and how they shape its meaning and impact. For example, consider the following argument: "All schools should be required to have metal detectors to ensure the safety of students."

The use of the word "all" in this argument immediately sets a broad and inclusive scope for the argument, implying that every single school should have metal detectors. The use of the word "should" instead of "must" or "are required to" implies a moral obligation rather than a legal requirement, adding a persuasive element to the argument. The use of the phrase "to ensure the safety of students" emphasizes the main reason for the argument, putting a greater emphasis on the potential benefits of metal detectors in schools.

Overall, the language used in this argument modifies and limits its impact by setting the scope, implying a moral obligation, and emphasizing the main reason for the argument. An effective analysis of this argument would consider these language choices and how they shape the overall argument.

Strategies for analyzing the impact of language in arguments

Identifying key words, phrases, and clauses in an argument

To identify key words, phrases, and clauses in an argument, you should look for words or phrases that seem to be repeated, emphasized, or central to the argument.
For example, in the argument, "The government must provide free healthcare for all citizens because healthcare is a basic human right," the key phrase is "free healthcare."

Evaluating the effect of these words, phrases, and clauses on the overall argument

Once you have identified the key words, phrases, and clauses, you can evaluate their impact on the overall argument by considering how they modify or limit the argument.
For example, in the argument above, the phrase "free healthcare" sets the condition that healthcare must be provided without any cost to the citizens.

Considering the impact of figurative language, connotation, and tone on the argument

Figurative language, connotation, and tone can also shape the meaning and impact of an argument.
For example, in the argument "The government must provide free healthcare for all citizens because healthcare is a basic human right," the use of the word "basic" conveys a sense of necessity and urgency, emphasizing the importance of this argument. The use of the word "right" implies that access to healthcare is a moral imperative.

These strategies for analyzing the impact of language in arguments can help you to better understand the arguments you read and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. By examining the words, phrases, and clauses used in an argument and considering the impact of figurative language, connotation, and tone, you can gain a deeper understanding of the argument and identify areas where the argument may be limited or flawed.

Conclusion

Summary of key concepts and strategies for analyzing the impact of language in arguments

The conclusion should summarize the main ideas covered in the previous sections, including the role of words, phrases, and clauses in modifying and limiting arguments, the strategies for analyzing the impact of language in arguments, and the importance of considering the impact of figurative language, connotation, and tone.

Finally, the conclusion should discuss the importance of considering the impact of language in arguments for effective communication and critical thinking. This includes the ability to analyze and evaluate arguments, as well as the ability to communicate effectively by using language that accurately conveys meaning and impact. By understanding the impact of language in arguments, individuals can become better communicators and critical thinkers, which are essential skills for success in a variety of settings.

Browse Study Guides By Unit

🧠Exam Skills

📑Exam Review - Synthesis Essay

📝Exam Review - Rhetorical Analysis Essay

💬Exam Review - Argument Essay

🧐 Multiple Choice Questions

📆Big Reviews: Finals & Exam Prep

🥇Unit 1 – Claims, Reasoning, & Evidence

🗂️Unit 2 – Organizing Information for a Specific Audience

👀Unit 3 – Perspectives & How Arguments Relate

🔚Unit 4 – How writers develop arguments, intros, & conclusions

🎀Unit 5 – How a writer brings all parts of an argument together