a plausible argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a plausible argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the validity or reasonableness of a particular argument or point of view. Example: "The researcher presented a plausible argument for the effectiveness of the new treatment based on the data collected during the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Back then, that was a plausible argument.

The Economist

So just don't mention it; it's a plausible argument.

The Guardian

It's a plausible argument, but fastidious to the point of flyspecking.

The New York Times

The Saudis have shown zero evidence or even a plausible argument of innocence in response.

The Washington Post

In a what-goes-up-must-come-down way, it looks a plausible argument.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a plausible argument, well put by the immensely experienced Dalvi.

The Guardian

This is a plausible argument, but let me offer a pair of cautions against it.

The New York Times

It's not that Mr Whelan's claim is outrageous; he has a plausible argument.

The Economist

This is simply not going to happen.Fortunately, there is a plausible argument against haste.

The Economist

He has a plausible argument to be a better general-election candidate than Mr Kerry.

The Economist

There is indeed a plausible argument that military action in recent years has made Britain less, not more, secure.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the context when assessing plausibility. What seems plausible to one group may not be to another.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a plausible argument" as a definitive conclusion. It indicates possibility and reasonability, not certainty. Use qualifying language to maintain appropriate nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plausible argument" functions as a noun phrase, where "plausible" modifies the noun "argument". It typically introduces a proposition or reasoning that appears reasonable or likely to be true, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a plausible argument" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase, according to Ludwig AI, that serves to introduce an idea or reasoning that appears reasonable or likely to be true. While it doesn't guarantee certainty, it invites consideration and further examination. It is often found in news articles, academic papers, and various other contexts, and as Ludwig highlights, alternative phrases like "a reasonable argument" or "a credible argument" may be used for similar effect depending on the desired nuance. Remember that while the phrase indicates a degree of believability, it is essential to avoid overstating the argument's definitive nature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a believable argument

Indicates that the argument is capable of being believed.

a reasonable argument

Highlights the argument's logical and sensible nature.

a credible argument

Suggests the argument is trustworthy and reliable.

a plausible justification

Focuses on providing reasons to support or defend something.

a plausible contention

Highlights the act of asserting something as a position in an argument.

a plausible case

Emphasizes the presentation of facts and reasoning to support a claim.

a possible argument

Indicates that the argument is capable of existing or happening.

a plausible thesis

Refers to a proposition that is maintained or defended in an argument.

a fair argument

Suggests the argument is equitable and unbiased.

a conceivable argument

Implies the argument is capable of being imagined or grasped mentally.

FAQs

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

You can use "a plausible argument" to introduce a point that seems reasonable but may not be definitively proven. For example, "The defense presented "a plausible argument" for the defendant's innocence based on circumstantial evidence."

What are some alternatives to "a plausible argument"?

Some alternatives include "a reasonable argument", "a credible argument", or "a believable argument", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "plausible argument" or "convincing argument"?

While both suggest the argument has merit, "plausible" implies it's potentially true based on available information, while "convincing" suggests it successfully persuaded someone. "A plausible argument" might not be "a convincing argument" if the listener remains skeptical.

What's the difference between "a plausible argument" and "a sound argument"?

"Plausible" suggests an argument appears reasonable on the surface. "Sound" indicates that an argument is not only plausible but also logically valid and based on true premises. "A plausible argument" could be based on faulty assumptions, while "a sound argument" is rigorously defensible.