What does the term "claim" refer to in an argument?

The term "claim" in an argument refers to the assertion being advanced. A claim is a statement or assertion that expresses a point of view or belief the author or speaker is trying to prove. In the context of an argument, a claim typically serves as the foundation upon which the rest of the argument is built. It is what the arguer is trying to convince the audience to accept as true or valid.

In a structured argument, this claim is usually supported by evidence and reasoning, but the claim itself is distinct from those supporting elements. Understanding the claim is crucial because it identifies the central idea that the argument revolves around, making it easier to analyze and debate the merits of the argument presented.