a semblance of reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a semblance of reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or argument that appears to have some logical basis, even if it is not entirely rational. Example: "Despite the chaos of the debate, there was a semblance of reason in his arguments that made them somewhat compelling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

When we reached Joliet, Ohio, at nine o'clock the next morning, I had calmed him into a semblance of reason.

The New Yorker

While I rejoice at the Supreme Court ruling and that our country has finally embraced a semblance of reason in the matter of the death penalty, I'm disgusted that we've essentially required guidance from the rest of the world in its entirety to show us the path away from cruelty.

The New York Times

We merely feel that, drastic and terrific and deplorable as was the stock panic of late in October, it was beginning to bring the public back to a semblance of reason with regard to stock prices, and that general reassurances may be undoing one of the few benefits accruing from that break.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

I would say that I have been blessed beyond any semblance of reason whatsoever.

Huffington Post

Always the internal voice saying, 'This is wrong,' while being so convinced of my beliefs that they ended up drowning out any semblance of reason.

Vice

Rizzuto spoke without notes, and, as Ira Berkow of The New York Times wrote, "without what sometimes seemed a semblance of rhyme or reason".

The New York Times

Above all, it gave me an excuse to cry when there seemed to be a reason to, a semblance of control.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a semblance of hope that if you are in this for the right reasons then it won't be a struggle.

Vice

And Jeff Schotz, executive managing officer for GVA Williams, said, "There is reason to think and hope that we are poised to return to a semblance of health".

The New York Times

In imposing what Mr. Weston-Jones described as "a semblance of law and order," no wonder Corcoran admits to often doing "the wrong things for the right reasons".

The New York Times - Arts

Over time, a semblance of normalcy returned.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a semblance of reason" when you want to indicate that something appears logical or rational, even if that appearance is superficial or incomplete. It's useful for describing situations where full rationality is lacking, but some elements of logical thought are present.

Common error

Avoid using "a semblance of reason" when the situation is entirely irrational or illogical. This phrase implies that there is at least some element of reason present, so using it in a completely nonsensical context would be misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a semblance of reason" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or a complement. It describes the quality or state of appearing reasonable, even if superficially. Ludwig examples show it used to describe situations or arguments that have a degree of perceived logic.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a semblance of reason" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe situations or arguments that have a superficial appearance of logic or rationality. Ludwig's analysis of the examples from reputable sources, primarily in the news and media, indicates that it often conveys a degree of skepticism, suggesting that the perceived rationality may not be entirely genuine. While grammatically sound, it's a relatively rare expression and should be used carefully to accurately reflect the intended nuance. Using the phrase correctly prevents the overstatement of rationality when it is not entirely present.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of rationality

Emphasizes a slight or subtle presence of rational thought.

a glimmer of rationality

Indicates a brief or fleeting moment of rational thought.

a degree of rationality

Focuses on the extent or level of rational thinking.

an appearance of logic

Highlights the superficial or outward presentation of logic.

a shadow of logic

Implies a faint or weak representation of logic.

a fragment of sanity

Indicates a very small or incomplete piece of sound judgment.

a touch of sanity

Suggests a small amount of sound judgment or mental stability.

a veneer of rationality

Suggests a thin or superficial layer of rational thinking.

a facade of reason

Highlights a deceptive or misleading appearance of rationality.

a pretense of logic

Focuses on the act of pretending to be logical.

FAQs

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

You can use "a semblance of reason" to describe situations where there's an outward appearance of logic, even if the underlying reality is less rational. For example: "Despite the chaotic meeting, there was "a semblance of reason" in her proposal."

What does "a semblance of reason" mean?

The phrase "a semblance of reason" means that something has an outward appearance of being logical or rational, but it may not be entirely sound or complete. It suggests a partial or superficial rationality.

What are some alternatives to "a semblance of reason"?

Alternatives include "a hint of rationality", "an appearance of logic", or "a degree of rationality". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "semblance of reason" or "a semblance of reason"?

While "semblance of reason" is grammatically understandable, "a semblance of reason" is more common and natural-sounding in most contexts. The article "a" helps to indicate that it's one instance or example of apparent rationality.