rebuttal
What does "rebuttal" mean?
A rebuttal is a formal argument or piece of evidence used to contradict or disprove a claim made by someone else. Think of it as a structured "counter-punch" in a debate or legal setting, where you are not just disagreeing, but systematically dismantling the logic of the opposing side. In practice, this word is most common in legal, academic, or professional settings where arguments are presented in stages. You would typically "offer," "issue," or "provide" a rebuttal. It carries a sense of intellectual rigor rather than just a simple emotional disagreement.
"rebuttal" in conversation
Debate preparation
Did you review the opponent's opening statement?
Did you review the opponent's opening statement?
Yes, I'm drafting a strong rebuttal to their claim about budget cuts.
Yes, I'm drafting a strong rebuttal to their claim about budget cuts.
Make sure you cite the latest audit figures.
Make sure you cite the latest audit figures.
Used here to describe a planned response to a specific argument.
Legal office
The prosecution's witness was very convincing.
The prosecution's witness was very convincing.
We have a rebuttal ready for the cross-examination.
We have a rebuttal ready for the cross-examination.
Highlights the strategic use of a rebuttal to counter testimony.
"rebuttal" in a sentence
She offered a quick rebuttal to his comment.
She offered a quick rebuttal to his comment.
The scientist published a detailed rebuttal of the new research findings.
The scientist published a detailed rebuttal of the new research findings.
The attorney's closing rebuttal effectively dismantled the defense's entire theory of the case.
The attorney's closing rebuttal effectively dismantled the defense's entire theory of the case.
