a reasonable point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when acknowledging a valid or logical argument made by someone in a discussion or debate. Example: "While I disagree with some of your conclusions, I must admit that you made a reasonable point about the need for more research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His attitude subverted a reasonable point that the only reason for Deadspin to have posted photographs of a partying Matt Leinart, the Arizona Cardinals' quarterback, was to humiliate him.

The New York Times - Sports

It seems a reasonable point.

The Economist

This is a reasonable point.

The New York Times

It's a reasonable point.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's a reasonable point.

The Guardian - Business

It is a reasonable point.

The New York Times

This surely seems like a reasonable point.

University of California, Berkeley

This seems to me a reasonable point.

The Guardian - Books

After all, the disgruntled French workers make a reasonable point.

The Guardian - Business

A reasonable point, although having a warning sign would probably attract even more negative attention.

The Guardian

He had a reasonable point: Trump is dangerous and no joke.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language by using synonyms like "a fair comment" or "a valid argument" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing. However, always choose the phrase that best fits the specific context and meaning you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "a reasonable point" multiple times in the same paragraph or short section. This can make your writing sound repetitive and uninspired. Instead, try to summarize several reasonable points into a broader acknowledgement or use synonyms sparingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable point" functions as a noun phrase that acknowledges the validity or logic of an idea. It is often used to concede a point in a discussion or debate, demonstrating understanding and consideration of the opposing viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable point" is a commonly used phrase to acknowledge the validity or logic of an argument, even when disagreeing overall. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase, and its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, including news, academic writing, and everyday conversations. To enhance writing, consider alternatives like ""a valid argument"" or ""a fair comment"", but avoid overuse. By mastering its proper usage, you can communicate with greater precision and intellectual honesty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid argument

Replaces "reasonable point" with "valid argument", focusing on the soundness of the argument.

a fair comment

Substitutes "reasonable point" with "fair comment", suggesting impartiality and justification.

a sound observation

Replaces "reasonable point" with "sound observation", emphasizing the perceptive and logical nature of the statement.

a logical conclusion

Shifts from acknowledging a point to recognizing a logically derived conclusion.

a sensible suggestion

Changes from a point to a suggestion, implying practicality and good judgment.

an understandable position

Focuses on the comprehensibility and justification of a stance or viewpoint.

a well-founded opinion

Highlights the solid basis and justification for an expressed opinion.

a persuasive case

Replaces "reasonable point" with "persuasive case", focusing on the convincing and compelling nature of the argument.

a justifiable assertion

Emphasizes the legitimacy and defensibility of a claim or statement.

a tenable position

Indicates that the viewpoint is defensible and can be maintained against scrutiny.

FAQs

How can I use "a reasonable point" in a sentence?

You can use "a reasonable point" to acknowledge the validity of someone's argument, even if you don't agree with their overall conclusion. For example, "While I disagree with your proposal, you make "a reasonable point" about the need for further research."

What can I say instead of "a reasonable point"?

You can use alternatives like "a valid argument", "a fair comment", or "a sound observation" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "reasonable point" or "valid point"?

Both "reasonable point" and "valid point" are correct. However, "reasonable" suggests that the point is logical and sensible, while "valid" implies that the point is well-founded and supported by evidence. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a reasonable point" and "a strong point"?

"A reasonable point" acknowledges the logic or sense in an argument, whereas "a strong point" emphasizes the persuasive power or impact of the argument. A point can be reasonable without being particularly strong, and vice versa.