a line of argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a line of argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a particular reasoning or rationale that supports a specific conclusion or viewpoint. Example: "In her essay, she presented a compelling line of argument that challenged the traditional views on climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

This is not a line of argument Blair's remaining supporters would apply to, say, Ken Livingstone.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is not a line of argument any writers really want drawn to their boss's attention.

The Guardian - Opinion

Reading around, I see that there's a line of argument that Peyton does it to be annoying.

The New Yorker

That's a line of argument shared by many Republicans in Washington and hawks in the Trump administration.

The Washington Post

Despite the breaks in exposition and the varying of "forms" within each work, everything he wrote advances a line of argument.

Princeton University

Ham often stresses a line of argument made within the broader creationist community, which resonates, at least somewhat, with the public at large.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

We then built a line-of-argument synthesis, which interpreted relationships between the concepts.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

(3) A line-of-argument approach was used to synthesize and interpret key concepts associated with patients' reasoning regarding individualized medicine.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

These models were then merged, discussed, and used to generate hypotheses, in order to produce a 'line-of-argument' synthesis.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

A 'line of argument' was drawn which described GPs' sense of isolation in decision-making for multimorbid patients.

BMJ Open

We linked the third-order interpretations using a 'line of argument', which represented the overarching perspective of GPs towards multimorbidity.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a line of argument" to introduce a specific stance or reasoning strategy in a formal or academic paper. Ensure that the argument is well-supported with evidence and logical connections.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "line of argument" as definitive or irrefutable. Acknowledge potential counterarguments and limitations to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a line of argument" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a specific approach to reasoning or a particular set of justifications used to support a claim. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

32%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a line of argument" is a versatile phrase used to describe a particular approach to reasoning or justification. Ludwig, as its AI, identifies it as grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse contexts, notably in news, academic and science. The phrase, while neutral, conveys a level of formality suitable for reasoned discussions. Remember that a compelling "a line of argument" should be well-supported, logically sound, and acknowledge potential counterclaims to strengthen its credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a logical argument

Emphasizes the logical structure and validity of the reasoning.

a course of reasoning

Highlights the logical progression and structured nature of the argument.

a chain of reasoning

Presents the argument as a series of connected logical steps.

a systematic argument

Suggests a logical and organized sequence to formulate the discussion.

a form of reasoning

Generalizes the concept of arguing by reasoning.

an avenue of reasoning

Suggests a pathway or direction that the argument takes.

a train of thought

Focuses more on the progression of ideas rather than the argumentative aspect.

a method of argumentation

Highlights a systematic plan to advance the argument.

a position to argue

Focuses on a defined position that someone wants to discuss and explain.

a mode of argumentation

Highlights the unique style of the argument.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce "a line of argument" in my writing?

Start by clearly stating the main point you intend to support, then present "a line of argument" that logically leads to that conclusion. Use evidence and examples to strengthen each step.

What is the difference between "a line of argument" and a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is the central claim of an essay, while "a line of argument" is the series of reasons and evidence used to support that claim. The argument is the detailed explanation, where the thesis is the succinct claim.

When is it appropriate to use "a line of argument" in a conversation?

Use "a line of argument" in formal discussions, debates, or presentations where you need to systematically present your reasoning and defend your position. Avoid it in casual chats.

What are some common weaknesses in "a line of argument"?

Common weaknesses include relying on unsupported claims, using faulty logic, ignoring counterevidence, or failing to adequately connect the evidence to the conclusion. Make sure that "a line of argument" is solid.