adv. [f. prec. + -LY2.] In an argumentative manner, in respect to argument.
a. 1660. Hammond, Wks., II. 28 (R.). It is argumentatively weak and unconcluding.
1695. Lond. Gaz., mmmxcv/4. The Mystery of Curing … Explained and Proved, Argumentatively and practically.
1876. Miss Braddon, J. Haggard’s Dau., III. 218. ‘I don’t call it honouring the Sabbath to sit down to a worse dinner than on a work-a-day,’ Jim remarked argumentatively.
