a respectable point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a respectable point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when acknowledging a valid or reasonable argument or observation made by someone. Example: "While I disagree with some of your conclusions, I must admit that you raised a respectable point about the need for further research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That's a respectable point of view.

The Guardian - Film

All of which means that those who say the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki prevented the deaths of hundreds of thousands more soldiers and civilians have, at the least, a respectable point.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is a perfectly respectable point of view and it is an interesting counterpoint to Mr Blair's fervent belief in what he calls the "enabling state .But it is hard to see how Mr Howard's enthusiasm for a greatly shrunken state combines with his need to persuade those distrustful voters that the public services will be safe in Tory hands.

The Economist

And on this occasion, the liberality of Philadelphia was displayed in a most respectable point of light.

The New York Times - Science

Later that week, after the Times attacked Miles's comments, Ingrams wrote: "The pro-Israeli bias of Sir Martin Gilbert and Sir Lawrence Freedman, both of them supporters of the 2003 invasion, is a perfectly respectable point to raise".

The Guardian

That India was "secular" was the respectable point of view among educated Indians.

The New York Times

Having improved on last year's UK score with a respectable 40 points, she can still hold her head high - although it might still be a bit sore from the after party.

BBC

Last year they scored a respectable 13 points, mostly from an unexpected second in Belgium.

The Guardian - Sport

And in both college and business school, I had what I would call a respectable "3-point-low" average.

The New York Times

They held the foul-prone Mourning to a respectable 23 points, but were outscored by the Heat bench, 21-6.

The New York Times - Sports

Tom Gilbert joins from Florida, where he had a respectable 28-point season last year, to add to the Habs' defensive core.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a respectable point" when you want to acknowledge that an argument or idea has merit, even if you don't fully agree with it. It's a good way to show respect for the other person's viewpoint and encourage further discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "a respectable point" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a valid argument" or "a reasonable position".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a respectable point" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition, or serving as a subject complement. As shown by Ludwig, it's used to denote that a particular argument or idea is worthy of consideration.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a respectable point" is a grammatically correct and usable expression used to acknowledge the validity of an argument or idea. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides context through numerous examples, with a primary use found in news and media. While not exceedingly common, it serves as a useful tool for showing respect and encouraging constructive dialogue. Consider related phrases such as "a valid argument" or "a reasonable position" to add variety to your writing and avoid overuse. Remember to use the phrase judiciously and be mindful of its context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid argument

Focuses on the logical soundness of the argument.

a sound viewpoint

Emphasizes the well-reasoned nature of the perspective.

a fair assessment

Highlights the impartiality and accuracy of the evaluation.

a legitimate consideration

Stresses the importance of taking the point into account.

a worthwhile idea

Underlines the value and merit of the thought.

a reasonable position

Indicates the point is logical and justifiable.

an understandable perspective

Focuses on the ease with which the point can be comprehended.

a credible assertion

Emphasizes the believability and trustworthiness of the statement.

an important observation

Highlights the significance of the noted detail.

a noteworthy consideration

Stresses the significance of the point as it merits attention.

FAQs

What does "a respectable point" mean?

The phrase "a respectable point" signifies that an argument, idea, or observation is considered valid, reasonable, or worthy of consideration, even if not entirely agreed upon.

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

You can use "a respectable point" to acknowledge someone's argument, for instance: "While I disagree with some of your conclusions, I must admit that you raised "a respectable point" about the need for further research."

What are some alternatives to saying "a respectable point"?

You can use alternatives like "a valid argument", "a sound viewpoint", or "a reasonable position".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a respectable point"?

It is appropriate to use "a respectable point" when you want to acknowledge the validity or reasonableness of someone's argument or perspective, even if you don't completely agree with it. It's a way to show respect and encourage constructive dialogue.