反論

• Reading: はんろん
• Romaji: hanron
• Kanji breakdown: 反 (han) — oppose, anti-, reverse; 論 (ron) — argument, theory, discourse
• Pronunciation: /haɴ.ɾoɴ/

Meaning

Objection; refutation; rebuttal; counterargument. An argument made in opposition to another.

A noun and suru-verb meaning to argue back or present a counterpoint. Stronger than 意見を述べる (state an opinion) — 反論 specifically implies disagreement and an attempt to disprove the other side. Used in debates, legal settings, and everyday disagreements: 反論する (to rebut), 反論の余地がない (no room for rebuttal).

Examples

1. 彼の主張に対して多くの反論が出た。 Many objections were raised against his argument.
2. 上司の意見に反論するのは勇気がいる。 It takes courage to push back against your boss's opinion.
3. その理論には反論の余地がない。 There's no room to refute that theory.

Usage Guide

Context: debate, academics, business

Tone: assertive

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 反 (han, oppose/anti) + 論 (ron, argument/theory). Literally 'opposing argument' — a theory or position that pushes back against another.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated