a well-supported argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a well-supported argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the strength or validity of a claim or position that is backed by evidence or reasoning. Example: "In her essay, she presented a well-supported argument that highlighted the importance of renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Nasty name-calling debases a well-supported argument.

The New York Times

For historians writ large, Watt's text offers a well-supported argument through the use of multiple archives and close readings of primary source material". "Watt is a keenly observant commentator who effortlessly blends media analysis with intellectual history, archival work with examinations of contemporary events.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"If somebody was scoring this debate, giving a point for each well-supported argument, deducting a point for each weak one, and subtracting multiple points every time somebody conceded the other side's argument, then Mars One lost it hands down," The Space Review noted at the time.

Forbes

Another well-supported argument is that democracies are especially vulnerable to ethnic conflict and organized crime.

The New York Times

Our mission is to ensure that four years later they emerge as lifelong learners who recognize that education is not just a matter of what you know -- but how to ask the right questions, to develop well-supported arguments, and to apply knowledge in new and unfamiliar contexts.

Huffington Post

Throw in the returning 2010 champion Andy Schleck, a confident Rodriguez and a well-supported Valverde, and it was not impossible to build an argument for Froome being the underdog here in France.

BBC

On the "determination rule" analysis, we must either limit the scope of such arguments to cases where we have a well-supported determination rule, or focus attention on formulating and justifying an appropriate determination rule.

SEP

4. Write a well-supported opinion paper examining whether or not this animal really exists.

The New York Times

A well-supported tree topology was recovered with both ML and Bayesian methods.

Nature

STEP integrates a high quality academic program with a well-supported, yearlong classroom placement.

Stanford University

Evolution is a well-supported and broadly accepted scientific theory; it is not just' a hunch.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When constructing an essay or presenting research, ensure each main point within your argument is substantiated with reliable sources. This strengthens your credibility and persuasiveness.

Common error

Avoid presenting opinions without backing them up with evidence or logical reasoning. A strong argument blends personal insights with verifiable data and reputable sources to create a well-rounded and convincing case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a well-supported argument" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "argument". It describes the quality of the argument, indicating that it is substantiated with evidence or reasoning. This is reflected in Ludwig's examples where the phrase is used to commend an argument that has backing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Academia

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a well-supported argument" is a phrase used to describe an argument that is backed by evidence, logical reasoning, or both. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently appears in academic, scientific, and news-related contexts. To effectively use the phrase and the concept it represents, ensure that claims are substantiated with credible sources and avoid relying solely on personal opinions. Alternatives such as "a substantiated claim" or "a well-reasoned case" can add nuance depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantiated claim

Focuses on the presence of evidence to back up the claim, similar to "a well-supported argument".

a well-reasoned case

Highlights the logical thinking and coherent structure of the argument.

a thoroughly justified position

Emphasizes that the position is warranted and defended with adequate reasons.

an evidence-based assertion

Stresses that the assertion is based on empirical data or factual evidence.

a logically sound argument

Concentrates on the validity and consistency of the reasoning within the argument.

a validated hypothesis

Suggests that the hypothesis has been tested and confirmed through experimentation or observation.

a defensible thesis

Implies that the thesis can be maintained and protected against criticism or challenge.

a cogently presented argument

Highlights the clarity and persuasiveness of the argument's presentation.

a grounded theory

Indicates that the theory is rooted in and derived from real-world data and observations.

a robust argument

Emphasizes the strength and resilience of the argument when subjected to scrutiny.

FAQs

How can I strengthen "a well-supported argument" in my writing?

To bolster "a well-supported argument", ensure your evidence is relevant, credible, and directly tied to your claims. Use varied sources, such as research studies, expert opinions, and statistical data, to fortify your position.

What distinguishes "a well-supported argument" from a mere opinion?

The key difference is that "a well-supported argument" is backed by evidence and logical reasoning, whereas an opinion is a personal belief that may not have factual backing. A strong argument requires demonstrable support.

Which is more effective: presenting a "well-supported argument" or relying on emotional appeals?

While emotional appeals can be persuasive, a "well-supported argument" is generally more effective in academic and professional contexts. Evidence-based arguments tend to be more convincing and withstand scrutiny better than emotionally driven claims.

What are some alternatives to presenting "a well-supported argument"?

Depending on the context, you could present "a reasoned case", "a substantiated claim", or "an evidence-based assertion". These alternatives emphasize different aspects of providing rationale and backing for a statement.