What does "implication" refer to in argument analysis?

In argument analysis, "implication" refers to something that can be inferred or concluded from the information presented, even if it is not explicitly stated. This concept hinges on the idea that arguments often contain underlying messages or conclusions that are suggested by the premises, rather than laid out straightforwardly.

In the context of this question, the notion of an implication extends the understanding of an argument beyond its surface to uncover deeper meanings or potential outcomes that arise from the premises. This makes option B the most accurate description of "implication." It acknowledges that arguments can lead to conclusions that the author may have intended but did not articulate directly.

The other choices do not capture the nuance of what implications represent in argument analysis. Direct statements made by the author, contradictions, and generalizations are all related concepts but do not specifically address the notion of inferred meanings that play a crucial role in understanding arguments comprehensively.