an argument would be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an argument would be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a hypothetical or theoretical argument in a discussion or analysis. Example: "An argument would be that increased funding for education leads to better student outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Such an argument would be doomed to failure.

The Guardian - Tech

But such an argument would be complicated and, in the current political conversation, exotic.

The New Yorker

Realising that every time you ban an opponent you prove you cannot win an argument would be another.

The Guardian - Opinion

We poured our hearts into the letters, and there were no time delays in the way, no fears that an argument would be unfinished when the satellite dropped.

The New York Times

Given the thorough nature of the process, the creation of such an argument would be extremely difficult unless significant new information had come to light.

Harvard Business Review

Such an argument would be used to question Mr. Louima's account generally, and specifically to question whether Mr. Schwarz -- or perhaps any second officer -- was involved.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Appealing to an inductive argument would be unacceptably circular.

SEP

Externalists would reject as implausible the psychological version of the principle, and therefore to assume it for purposes of an internalist argument would be question-begging against the externalist.

SEP

A contrary argument would be that even small details have value as history.

The New York Times

A related argument would be that the highly regulated nature of the food and drug law industry dictates that regulators of speech in this context should receive more leeway.

Harvard University

A better argument would be to say that in the cases of both Pearl Harbor and 9/11, an all-out response was absolutely inevitable — just as it would have been by any major state capable of fighting back.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting multiple arguments, vary your phrasing by using synonyms such as "one could argue that" or "a possible argument is" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences or paragraphs with "an argument would be", as it can make your writing sound repetitive and formulaic. Instead, try rephrasing some arguments using more direct and assertive language, such as stating the argument directly without introductory phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an argument would be" functions as an introductory phrase to present a hypothetical or theoretical argument. It sets the stage for exploring a potential viewpoint or idea. Based on Ludwig AI's analysis, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an argument would be" is a grammatically correct introductory phrase used to present a hypothetical or theoretical argument. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Although versatile, it's crucial to consider context, aiming for conciseness in assertive writing. Alternative phrases such as "one could argue that" or "a possible argument is" can be employed to prevent repetition. While the phrase is acceptable in formal writing, overuse can lead to a repetitive tone. Therefore, writers should vary their phrasing and consider more direct language when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one could argue

This phrase replaces "an argument would be" with a direct statement of potential argumentation, focusing on the act of arguing.

it could be argued that

This alternative emphasizes the possibility of the argument being made, adding a layer of passive voice.

a possible argument is

This phrase highlights the argument as one possibility among others, emphasizing its tentative nature.

it might be contended that

This alternative uses a more formal tone, suggesting a formal or academic setting for the argument.

one might suggest

This phrase softens the introduction of the argument, presenting it as a suggestion rather than a firm claim.

a case could be made for

This alternative focuses on building a case or justification for a particular viewpoint.

it is conceivable that

This phrase emphasizes the possibility or conceivability of the argument being true.

the idea is that

This alternative presents the argument as an idea or concept, simplifying the introduction.

a theory suggests

This phrase introduces the argument as stemming from a particular theory or model.

hypothetically speaking

This phrase introduces the argument as a hypothetical scenario or possibility, emphasizing its speculative nature.

FAQs

How can I use "an argument would be" in a sentence?

Use "an argument would be" to introduce a hypothetical or theoretical point. For example, "An argument would be that increased funding for education leads to better student outcomes."

What can I say instead of "an argument would be"?

You can use alternatives like "one could argue", "it could be argued that", or "a possible argument is" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "an argument would be" in formal writing?

Yes, "an argument would be" is suitable for formal writing, but it's often better to use more direct and concise phrasing to make your point more impactful.

What's the difference between "an argument would be" and "the argument is"?

"An argument would be" introduces a hypothetical or potential argument, while "the argument is" presents a specific, existing argument. Use "an argument would be" when you're exploring possibilities and "the argument is" when you're stating a known viewpoint.