bad reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bad reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a flawed or illogical thought process or argument. Example: "The conclusion he reached was based on bad reasoning, which undermined his entire argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

You can use whatever reasoning you want, including bad reasoning.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's an example of poor judgment, driven by misinformation and bad reasoning.

The New York Times

Most of the bad reasoning on the postwar situation comes from an almost ridiculous error – forgetting that not having competitors doesn't help if you also don't have any customers.

The New York Times

It's pretty bad reasoning not to understand that, although 99% of invasive cervical cancer is caused by HPV, this doesn't mean that 99% of HPV causes invasive cervical cancer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Maybe because philosophers are trained in critical thinking and can quickly detect bad reasoning.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This research provides scientific evidence that those who are unable to empathize or care (e.g., because of damage to the part of the brain the amygdala where care and empathy reside) do not simply engage in bad ethical reasoning; they do not engage in ethical reasoning at all.

SEP

Unsound Reasoning.

Forbes

Martin alleges that the course material he studied during his six weeks at the LSE was systematically anti-male overlooked men's issues, and ignored any research that contested a "women good, men bad" line of reasoning.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Martin claims he had the misfortune of being subject to a torrent of anti-male discrimination," Dean writes, adding: "Martin alleges that the course material he studied … was systematically anti-male, overlooked men's issues, and ignored any research that contested a 'women good, men bad' line of reasoning.

The Guardian - Opinion

Otherwise, bad case-based reasoning results would occur beside of low values in subindex III.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

Mental illness – the inability to distinguish good from bad – reflects immoral reasoning.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bad reasoning" to describe the logical errors or fallacies within the thinking process, rather than simply dismissing the conclusion.

Common error

Avoid labeling reasoning as "bad" simply because you disagree with the outcome. Focus on objectively evaluating the logical steps and evidence used to reach the conclusion. It's possible to reach a different conclusion through sound reasoning, even if you disagree with the premise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bad reasoning" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "bad" modifies the noun "reasoning". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bad reasoning" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe flawed or illogical thinking. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in English writing. While it appears across various contexts, it's particularly prevalent in news and media, and scientific discourse. When using or encountering this phrase, it's crucial to focus on the specific flaws in the reasoning process, rather than simply disagreeing with the conclusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flawed logic

Emphasizes the presence of errors or inconsistencies within the logical structure.

unsound logic

Highlights the weakness or instability of the reasoning process.

faulty reasoning

Indicates a defect or imperfection in the reasoning process.

poor judgment

Focuses on the decision-making aspect, suggesting a lack of good sense.

illogical thinking

Highlights the lack of logical consistency in the thought process.

defective reasoning

Suggests a structural problem or deficiency in the reasoning.

specious reasoning

Implies that the reasoning appears correct but is actually fallacious.

fallacious argument

Emphasizes that the argument contains logical fallacies.

invalid reasoning

Highlights that the reasoning does not follow established logical principles.

irrational thought

Indicates reasoning that is not based on reason or logic.

FAQs

How can I identify "bad reasoning" in an argument?

Look for logical fallacies, unsupported claims, and irrelevant information. Also, consider whether the evidence provided actually supports the conclusion being drawn. Scrutinize the steps of "reasoning", not just the outcome.

What's a polite way to point out "bad reasoning"?

Frame your critique as a question or suggestion, such as "Have you considered alternative explanations?" or "Could the data be interpreted differently?" Focus on the "reasoning" process rather than directly labeling the person as wrong.

What are some alternatives to "bad reasoning"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "flawed logic", "unsound logic", or "faulty reasoning". These terms can sometimes be more precise or less accusatory.

Is "bad reasoning" always intentional?

No, "bad reasoning" can be unintentional. People may be unaware of logical fallacies or may have biases that affect their thinking. It's important to distinguish between unintentional errors and deliberate manipulation.