Argue – Exchange or express diverging or opposite views, or cite evidence in support of an idea, action, or theory, typically with the aim of persuading others to share one’s view.
This word never appears in Scripture.
Argue is never used with a negative connotation. This is what lawyers do in court.
If a person has a closed mind and is emotionally connected to their position, they may abandon the argument and begin a heated debate.
Because of a lack of a vocabulary, Presumed Public Knowledge, and the redefining of words today, people generally think that they are arguing when, in fact, they are debating. Thus, people generally attach a negative connotation to the word argue.
See also Contend/Contentious, Debate, Strife, Strive