a semblance of logic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a semblance of logic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or argument that appears to have some logical structure, even if it is not entirely sound or coherent. Example: "While the proposal was filled with flaws, it still managed to present a semblance of logic that some found convincing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For a moment, the mountains of Megève — a hint of the Alps — loomed over a room full of cheese eaters, and a semblance of logic passed through the place like a breeze.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

His furious insistence on his pupil's obedience becomes more rigid, even as his speeches about speech lose all semblance of logic, and the play concludes with an explosion of violence that stills laughter for good.

The New York Times

This order lacks any semblance of logic.

Huffington Post

I could only think about peeing, and any semblance of logic I had went out the window. .

Vice

It was an imperfect system, but it did offer some semblance of logic and for years sustained that publishing area devoted to serious novels.

Huffington Post

ELLEN: Seeing your girl playing basketball has compelled me to scroll wistfully back to where our journey began, in the search of some semblance of logic that might explain how far we've strayed.

The New Yorker

Over time, a semblance of normalcy returned.

The New Yorker

A semblance of normal life has returned.

The Economist

A semblance of political comedy.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I want a semblance of the truth.

The New York Times

Slowly, the war's end brought a semblance of peace.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a semblance of logic" to describe arguments or situations that appear to follow a logical structure, even if flawed or incomplete. This acknowledges a degree of rationality without fully endorsing its validity.

Common error

Avoid using "a semblance of logic" when there is absolutely no logical connection. The phrase implies at least a faint appearance of reason, so ensure there's some basis for suggesting logic, however weak.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a semblance of logic" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the degree to which something appears logical, even if the logic is not entirely sound or complete. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a semblance of logic" is used to describe something that appears logical, even if the logic is weak or flawed. Ludwig confirms that the expression is grammatically sound and acceptable. While its frequency is categorized as rare, it appears mainly in news and media contexts, indicating its use in analytical and descriptive writing. Related phrases, such as "an appearance of reason" or "a glimmer of rationality", offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, with varying emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure that there is at least a hint of logical connection to avoid misrepresenting the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appearance of reason

Highlights that the situation merely appears reasonable, potentially masking underlying flaws.

an element of sense

Indicates that there is some understandable or sensible aspect to something, though it may not be fully logical.

a glimmer of rationality

Suggests a slight amount of logical thinking is present, even if limited.

a trace of plausibility

Focuses on the idea that something is believable or credible, even if not entirely logical.

a show of reason

Suggests that the reason is displayed intentionally, possibly for effect.

a facade of logic

Emphasizes that the logic is only superficial and intended to deceive.

a thread of consistency

Highlights that there is a consistent element, even if the overall logic is weak.

a veneer of coherence

Implies a thin, superficial layer of coherence that may not be genuine.

a fragment of coherence

Emphasizes that the coherence is incomplete or broken.

a pretense of logic

Indicates a false display of logical reasoning, often to hide ulterior motives.

FAQs

How can I use "a semblance of logic" in a sentence?

You can use "a semblance of logic" to describe an argument or situation that has the appearance of being logical, even if it's not entirely sound. For example: "The politician's speech had "a semblance of logic", but upon closer inspection, it fell apart."

What's a good alternative to "a semblance of logic"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an appearance of reason", "a glimmer of rationality", or "a veneer of coherence".

What does it mean to say something has "a semblance of logic"?

It means that something appears to have a logical structure or basis, even if that logic is weak, flawed, or superficial. It implies a degree of rationality without fully endorsing its soundness.

Is "a semblance of logic" a positive or negative description?

It's generally a neutral to slightly negative description. It acknowledges a degree of logic but suggests that it's not entirely convincing or well-founded. The connotation depends on the context in which it is used.