It is nonsensical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "It is nonsensical" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that lacks meaning or makes no sense in a particular context. Example: "The argument presented in the debate was so convoluted that it is nonsensical to anyone trying to follow along."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

It is nonsensical for people to make that argument.

The New York Times

It is nonsensical, unaffordable, and not good value for money.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is nonsensical that people would be denied treatments that work because they are off patent.

Independent

It is nonsensical to have one morality for laity and one for clergy.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is nonsensical that America should be leading the formation of the region's biggest free-trade area, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, without the inclusion of the region's largest economy.

The Economist

It is nonsensical to set up some kind of literary competition between Tim Parks, fine writer though he is, and Philip Roth, and I'm sure Parks would be among the first to agree.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

"It was nonsensical and we can still feel its effects 50 years on.

BBC

It's nonsensical to me.

The Guardian

"In that sense, it's nonsensical.

The New York Times

"He said it was nonsensical because the correspondence was innocuous".

The New York Times

It's post-truth politics and it's nonsensical.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing “It is nonsensical” to make a point, ensure that the context surrounding it clearly explains what exactly is being deemed illogical to strengthen your argument's persuasiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "It is nonsensical" in highly formal or academic writing where more nuanced or technical language might be appropriate. Consider alternatives like "illogical" or "unfounded" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "It is nonsensical" functions as a declarative statement expressing strong disagreement or dismissal of an idea or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and expresses something that lacks meaning or sense. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate usage across diverse contexts to firmly reject illogical propositions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "It is nonsensical" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey that something lacks reason, logic, or meaning. As Ludwig AI points out, it's effective for directly dismissing ideas or actions as unworthy of consideration. While versatile, it's most frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Scientific contexts and should be used cautiously in overly formal or academic settings, where more precise language may be preferred. Its alternatives, such as "It is absurd" or "It makes no sense", offer varying degrees of emphasis on the lack of logic or reason.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It makes no sense

Focuses on the lack of logical coherence.

It is absurd

Emphasizes the ridiculous nature of something.

It is illogical

Highlights the contradiction of logical principles.

It is unreasonable

Suggests the lack of fairness or justification.

It is preposterous

Implies utter foolishness or outrageousness.

It is fatuous

Highlights foolishness and inanity.

It defies logic

Indicates a direct contradiction of logical reasoning.

It is irrational

Implies a lack of reason or sound judgment.

It's sheer folly

Highlights the foolishness of an action or idea.

It's just crazy

Emphasizes a state of extreme absurdity or illogicality, suitable for informal contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "It is nonsensical" in a sentence?

You can use "It is nonsensical" to express that something lacks reason or makes no sense. For example: "It is nonsensical to argue against established scientific facts."

What are some alternatives to "It is nonsensical"?

Alternatives include "It is absurd", "It is illogical", or "It makes no sense", each carrying slightly different connotations of unreasonableness.

When is it appropriate to use "It is nonsensical"?

Use "It is nonsensical" when you want to directly dismiss something as illogical or unreasonable, especially when you feel it's not worth serious consideration. It's suitable for both speaking and writing but be mindful of overly formal contexts.

Is "It is nonsensical" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "It is nonsensical" can sometimes be perceived as too direct for formal academic writing. In such cases, consider using more nuanced alternatives like "It is unfounded" or "It is unsubstantiated" depending on the specific context and desired tone.