buttress a point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "buttress a point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to support or strengthen an argument or assertion with evidence or reasoning. Example: "The researcher provided several statistics to buttress her point about the importance of early childhood education."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

For trees with large buttresses, a point above the main flare of the buttresses is often used to measure diameter; its abbreviation is Dab.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

"Gold prices are climbing," Beck said, a point buttressed throughout the hour by advertisements from gold dealers.

The New York Times - Magazine

To buttress his point, he referred to a neurology textbook that shows the procedure as he says it was performed.

The New York Times

Football great Brett Favre, a Gulf Coast native, appeared in a television ad for Cochran to buttress that point.

Los Angeles Times

To buttress this point, lawyers for L.A. Unified filed a complaint with the state Public Employment Relations Board, which oversees labor negotiations.

Los Angeles Times

Both sides have produced elaborate "investigations" to buttress their point of view.

The New York Times

To buttress his point, Winston cited exit poll data showing that 45 percent of the electorate described the economy as "not so good," a segment of the voting public that should have been a prime Republican target.

The New York Times

To buttress the point, and invite the rather convenient branding comparison, Mesi's backers invited Marciano's brothers, Lou and Peter, and his nephew Lou Jr. to offer blessings at the luncheon.

The New York Times - Sports

To buttress her point, Ms. Vanden Berg noted that Emily's List, which works to elect female Democrats who support abortion rights, had filled a small room to capacity with about 100 Iowans on a gorgeous Friday morning in the heart of vacation season, nearly two and a half years before the next caucuses.

The New York Times

Officials also hope eventually to buttress the point where the slide meets the sea, to prevent erosion and further stabilize the slide.

Los Angeles Times

He used statistics in a creative manner to buttress his points, but he took a wide-angle view as well.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "buttress a point", ensure that the evidence or reasoning you provide directly and logically supports the argument you're making. Avoid using irrelevant information, even if it's factually correct.

Common error

Avoid using anecdotal evidence or personal opinions as the primary means to "buttress a point". Instead, focus on verifiable facts, data, or expert opinions to strengthen your arguments.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "buttress a point" is that of a verb phrase acting as a transitive verb, where 'buttress' functions as the verb and 'a point' serves as its direct object. It describes the act of providing support or reinforcement to an argument or idea, as Ludwig AI confirms with its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "buttress a point" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing the act of providing support or reinforcement to an argument. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is generally correct and is used across various contexts. While the register is neutral to formal, its effectiveness lies in the quality and relevance of the supporting evidence. It is more effective when using facts, data, and expert opinions to strengthen your arguments than relying on opinions or anecdotes. Alternatives such as "support an argument" or "reinforce a claim" can be used for variety, but the core idea remains the same: to strengthen a point with solid reasoning and evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

support an argument

This alternative uses a more general term for providing assistance or validation.

reinforce a claim

This option emphasizes strengthening a statement that may be disputed or doubted.

bolster a position

This phrase suggests adding support to a stance that may be under pressure or attack.

substantiate an assertion

This alternative focuses on providing evidence to prove the truth or validity of a statement.

validate a hypothesis

This version is more specific, referring to the confirmation of a scientific or academic proposition.

justify a statement

This implies demonstrating that a statement is right or reasonable, often in response to criticism.

corroborate evidence

This suggests confirming or supporting evidence with additional information.

shore up an idea

This uses a nautical metaphor to indicate reinforcing or supporting an idea that may be weak or unstable.

fortify a belief

This emphasizes strengthening a conviction or opinion against doubt or opposition.

underpin a theory

This suggests providing a foundation or basis for a theoretical concept.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "buttress a point" in writing?

To effectively use "buttress a point", provide solid evidence, data, or expert opinions that directly support your claim. Strong evidence makes your argument more convincing.

What are some alternatives to "buttress a point"?

You can use alternatives such as "support an argument", "reinforce a claim", or "bolster a position" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "buttress a point" with facts or opinions?

While opinions can play a role, it's generally more effective to "buttress a point" with verifiable facts, data, and expert analysis. This strengthens the credibility of your argument.

What's the difference between "buttress a point" and "prove a point"?

"Buttress a point" means to strengthen or support an existing argument, while "prove a point" implies demonstrating the absolute truth or validity of something. Buttressing provides support, while proving aims for conclusive evidence.