Word of the DaySteelman (noun / verb)
Definition: A strengthened, charitable version of another person’s argument, presented in its best possible form.
Used in a sentence: "Before disagreeing, she took a moment to steelman his point, making sure she addressed the strongest version of his argument."
A modern counterpart to strawman (WotD, April 3rd), steelman flips the idea entirely. Instead of weakening an argument to make it easier to attack, it reinforces it.
Removing flaws, clarifying intent, and presenting it as convincingly as possible.
To steelman is to argue in good faith. It requires understanding not just what someone said, but what they meant at their strongest.
You are arguing against the best possible version of an argument.
#English #WordOfTheDay
Definition: A strengthened, charitable version of another person’s argument, presented in its best possible form.
Used in a sentence: "Before disagreeing, she took a moment to steelman his point, making sure she addressed the strongest version of his argument."
A modern counterpart to strawman (WotD, April 3rd), steelman flips the idea entirely. Instead of weakening an argument to make it easier to attack, it reinforces it.
Removing flaws, clarifying intent, and presenting it as convincingly as possible.
To steelman is to argue in good faith. It requires understanding not just what someone said, but what they meant at their strongest.
You are arguing against the best possible version of an argument.
#English #WordOfTheDay