Translation guide
How to express the idea of defeating someone in an argument, or persuading them to change their mind through debate.
To argue so effectively that the other person gives up or is silenced.
The most direct equivalent. Means to out-argue or talk someone down, leaving them unable to counter.
To negotiate or haggle until the other person reduces their asking price or demand.
To haggle or bargain down a price. The standard verb for negotiating a lower price.
言い負かす focuses on the result of silencing someone, while 論破する emphasizes logical refutation. 論破する is often used in formal debates or online arguments, whereas 言い負かす can be used in everyday quarrels.
He completely argued his opponent down in the debate.
To refute or demolish someone's argument logically. Common in formal debates or online discussions.
She argued down her opponent's claims one after another.
To corner someone in an argument so they can't respond. Implies a one-sided verbal beating.
He argued his boss down and got his own proposal accepted.
To talk someone into submission or persuade them by overwhelming them with words, often with a nuance of trickery.
He argued his opponent down with clever rhetoric.
He argued the price down to half at the market.
To make someone lower the price. Often used when the seller gives a discount after negotiation.
I argued him down by 1,000 yen.
To get someone to give a discount. More formal than まけさせる.
He persistently argued them down to a big discount.
In emotional fights, people often argue each other down, but in academic debates, logical refutation is required.