almost defies logic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost defies logic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or statement that seems so unreasonable or illogical that it nearly challenges the very principles of logic itself. Example: "The way he managed to solve the problem in just a few minutes almost defies logic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Frankly it almost defies logic of what had to happen to reach the postseason.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The Yankees, almost defying logic, continue to do well, and perhaps have luck on their side.

The New York Times - Sports

What those fans are seeing is a team that almost defied logic while building a 30-19 recond on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.

The New York Times - Sports

It seems almost monthly they do something that defies logic and/or looks to be a suicidal act.

TechCrunch

It defies logic.

Forbes

"But Michael defies logic.

The New York Times - Magazine

This defies logic.

The New York Times - Arts

Something that defies logic.

The Guardian - Sport

It also defies logic.

The Guardian - Opinion

Dubai defies logic.

The Guardian

Thomond Park defies logic.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "almost defies logic" when you want to express that something is so counterintuitive or unexpected that it seems to contradict logical reasoning, but without completely abandoning the possibility of a rational explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "almost defies logic" when a situation is merely surprising or unusual. This phrase is most effective when there's a genuine tension with established principles of reasoning, not just a deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost defies logic" functions as a qualifier, expressing a strong sense of incredulity or improbability. It suggests something is very close to being illogical without completely abandoning the possibility of a rational explanation. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is usable in written english.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "almost defies logic" is used to express a strong sense of disbelief or incredulity, suggesting that something is close to being illogical without completely being so. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the situation genuinely challenges logical reasoning, and is not simply surprising or unusual. Alternatives such as "borders on the illogical" or "approaches absurdity" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

borders on the illogical

Emphasizes the closeness to being completely illogical.

approaches absurdity

Highlights the near-absurd nature of something.

nears irrationality

Focuses on the lack of rational basis.

verges on the nonsensical

Stresses the lack of sense or meaning.

is nearly paradoxical

Indicates a strong contradiction or inconsistency.

is close to unreason

Emphasizes the absence of reason.

is practically illogical

Highlights the practical implication of something being illogical.

is on the brink of being absurd

Implies a situation is very close to being ridiculous.

is not far from being irrational

Focuses on the proximity to irrationality.

almost defies belief

Focuses on the incredulity the situation causes.

FAQs

How can I use "almost defies logic" in a sentence?

You can use "almost defies logic" to describe something that seems extremely unlikely or contrary to reason. For example: "His sudden recovery "almost defies logic" given the severity of his illness".

What's a good alternative to "almost defies logic"?

Alternatives include phrases like "borders on the illogical", "approaches absurdity", or "nears irrationality". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "defies logic" instead of "almost defies logic"?

While "defies logic" is also correct, "almost defies logic" suggests a slightly lesser degree of contradiction or incredulity. "Defies logic" implies a complete breakdown of reason, while "almost defies logic" suggests something comes very close to that point.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "almost defies logic"?

Use "almost defies logic" when you want to express strong disbelief or surprise at something that seems contrary to logical reasoning, but might still have a possible (though perhaps improbable) explanation.