Technology Fundamentals

Argument

Definition

An argument is the actual value that is passed to a function when it is called. This value is assigned to the corresponding parameter in the function definition.

Why It Matters

Arguments are the concrete data that a function operates on. They are the way you provide input to a function to get a result.

Contextual Example

If you have a function `add(a, b)`, and you call it like `add(5, 3)`, then `5` and `3` are the arguments.

Common Misunderstandings

  • Argument" is the value passed during the function call. "Parameter" is the variable in the function's definition.
  • People often use the terms "parameter" and "argument" interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings.

Related Terms

Last Updated: December 17, 2025