a defensible argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a defensible argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a point of view or reasoning that can be supported with evidence or logic. Example: "In the debate, she presented a defensible argument that highlighted the importance of renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Getting Congress to change the rules, says Córdova, "is a long process, but we have a defensible argument".

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

That is a perfectly defensible argument, and many economists still believe that the Fed has got things broadly right.

The New Yorker

There is a perfectly defensible argument that Britain should publicly break off its deep and long-standing relationship with Saudi.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, most defenders of the Argument from Experience advance it at best as a defensible line of reasoning, rather than as a proof of valid experiences of God that should convince anyone, and the doxastic practice approach is not meant to convince everybody to participate in a theistic doxastic practice (see Gellman, 2001b).

SEP

It's not a defensible statement.

Huffington Post

This is a defensible policy argument, and one that many environmentalists would support.

The New Yorker

The strongly defensible argument has been that we are charging headlong into an age when autonomous war machines will make decisions about killing humans, and that the logic justifying this lethal trust in robotic technology is highly suspect.

Huffington Post

The only defensible argument is the economic one, which has been oversold.

The New Yorker

One defensible argument is that it can't be, or not convincingly.

The New Yorker

"The Hall of Fame already includes men who helped institute and defend the color line, and there is no defensible argument that makes the color line more benign than P.E.D. use".

The New York Times - Sports

"There is no defensible argument against this legislation," said Representative Renee Ellmers (R-NC).

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a defensible argument", ensure that you can clearly articulate the reasons and evidence that support your position.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a defensible argument" as unassailable. Acknowledge potential counterarguments or limitations to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defensible argument" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "argument." It describes the quality of the argument, indicating that it can be justified or defended. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science & Research

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a defensible argument" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes an argument supported by evidence and reason. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for use in various contexts. It is particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the argument presented is, in fact, supportable and that any limitations are acknowledged. Alternatives such as "a justifiable argument" or "a well-reasoned argument" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a justifiable argument

Emphasizes the fairness and legitimacy of the argument.

a supportable argument

Highlights that the argument can be sustained with evidence.

a tenable argument

Focuses on the argument's ability to be maintained or defended.

a sustainable argument

Suggests the argument can endure over time and under scrutiny.

a well-reasoned argument

Highlights the quality of the reasoning behind the argument.

a logical argument

Emphasizes the adherence to logical principles.

a valid argument

Focuses on the formal correctness and soundness of the argument.

a plausible argument

Highlights the argument's believability and likelihood.

a sound argument

Suggests the argument is based on solid evidence and reasoning.

a credible argument

Focuses on the argument's trustworthiness and reliability.

FAQs

How can I use "a defensible argument" in a sentence?

You can use "a defensible argument" to describe a point of view that is supported by evidence and reasoning. For example: "The lawyer presented "a defensible argument" based on forensic evidence."

What are some alternatives to "a defensible argument"?

Alternatives include "a justifiable argument", "a supportable argument", or "a well-reasoned argument".

Is "a defensible argument" formal or informal?

"A defensible argument" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone and subject matter.

What makes an argument "defensible"?

An argument is considered "defensible" if it can be supported by evidence, logic, and reason, making it capable of withstanding scrutiny and counterarguments.