against all logic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "against all logic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or action that defies reason or rational thought. Example: "His decision to invest in that failing company was against all logic, yet he believed it would turn around."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Others flourish seemingly against all logic.

Harvard University

Against all logic, Clara is arrested and sentenced to prison.

The New York Times - Books

Yet some people still insist, against all logic, on owning a car.

The New York Times

And oddly, against all logic, I've a hunch my prayer will be heard.

Independent

Cheryl is a delusional, hilarious narcissist, but also good-hearted and, against all logic, hopeful.

The Guardian - Books

Other events just stick for no particular reason and against all logic.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

As a reference point, the QPR experience clearly serves a purpose as City approach another Premier League climax against a team all logic suggests they will dismiss.

The Guardian - Sport

Against all economic logic, the Nets were operated as if they played in a sold-out arena, with millions in luxury suite riches.

The New York Times - Sports

First, he inspects the claim that it is predominantly nonviolent drug offenders, imprisoned against all moral logic, who populate our prisons.

The New Yorker

There is a stereotyped image of the Andes showing poverty against a background of bleak, unproductive mountains, where millions insist, against all apparent logic, on living at 10,000 feet (3,000 metres) or more above sea level.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Theo is obsessed with auto racing and determined — against all odds, logic and the persistent naysaying of his older brother, Chet (Paul Giamatti) — to compete in a legitimate speedway event.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "against all logic" to emphasize the unexpected or irrational nature of a situation or decision. It's particularly effective when highlighting a contrast between what is expected and what actually occurs.

Common error

Avoid using "against all logic" in situations where the outcome is merely surprising or unusual, but not truly illogical. The phrase carries a strong connotation of irrationality and should be reserved for cases where reason is genuinely defied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "against all logic" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action or situation occurs in spite of what is considered reasonable or predictable. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Academia

10%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "against all logic" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the unexpected and irrational nature of events or decisions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses. Its frequency in news and media highlights its utility in describing surprising situations. To enhance writing, avoid using it in oversimplified scenarios and consider alternatives like "defying common sense" or "contrary to expectations" to suit the specific context. The most authoritative sources using this phrase include The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defying common sense

Highlights the clash with practical wisdom and everyday understanding.

in defiance of reason

Emphasizes the rejection of rational thought and logical principles.

despite all reason

Similar to "in defiance of reason", but with a slightly softer tone.

contrary to expectations

Focuses on the element of surprise or deviation from what is anticipated.

counterintuitively

Suggests that the outcome is the opposite of what one would expect.

without rhyme or reason

Indicates a complete absence of logic or explanation.

against all odds

Emphasizes the improbability of success or a positive outcome.

illogically

A simple adverb indicating a lack of logical connection or sequence.

unreasonably

Highlights the lack of justification for a particular action or belief.

paradoxically

Highlights the contradictory nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "against all logic" in a sentence?

You can use "against all logic" to describe actions or situations that defy reason or expectation. For example: "Against all logic, he invested his life savings in a failing business."

What are some alternatives to "against all logic"?

Alternatives include "contrary to expectations", "defying common sense", or "in defiance of reason". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "against all logic" or "contrary to logic"?

"Against all logic" and "contrary to logic" are similar, but "against all logic" often implies a stronger sense of disbelief or surprise. "Contrary to logic" is a more neutral statement indicating disagreement with a logical conclusion.

When is it appropriate to use "against all logic" in writing?

Use "against all logic" when you want to emphasize that something happened despite the fact that it seemed impossible or unreasonable. This phrase can add emphasis and a sense of wonder or disbelief to your writing.