cannot be refuted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be refuted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when stating that something is so strong or valid that it cannot be disproven or challenged. Example: "The evidence presented in the study is so compelling that it cannot be refuted by any opposing argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"That's a fact and cannot be refuted.

The New York Times

The orthodox Christian view cannot be refuted scientifically.

The Guardian - Opinion

And the thing about poets is that they cannot be refuted.

The New Yorker

All that will be heard is that which cannot be refuted: people's experiences, feelings, and beliefs.

Independent

By this technique of proposing one definition after another and subjecting each to possible counterexamples, Socrates attempts to discover a definition that cannot be refuted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And whereas the voodoo priest's worldview is ultimately refuted scientifically by the corpses of his patient, there is no comparable scientific refutation that Harris can offer to someone who sides with Orson Welles's Harry Lime: Not that the Lime worldview cannot be refuted!

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

What Mr. Irwin makes abundantly clear, whether he fully realizes it or not, is that "Orientalism" cannot really be refuted.

The New York Times - Books

Claims of this nature cannot be substantiated, nor can they be refuted; it is improbable that all human dramatic forms were directly inspired by puppets, but it seems certain that from a very early period in man's development puppet theatre and human theatre grew side by side, each perhaps influencing the other.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He needed to be refuted.

The New York Times

Propaganda needs to be refuted not censored.

The New York Times

Accepted theories can be refuted.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be refuted" when you want to emphasize the strength and validity of a claim, ensuring it is perceived as robust and resistant to challenge. This phrase is particularly effective in formal writing and persuasive arguments.

Common error

While "cannot be refuted" is a strong phrase, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Overuse can make your language sound stilted or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "undeniable" or "irrefutable" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be refuted" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a particular statement, argument, or piece of evidence is impossible to disprove or challenge effectively. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be refuted" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to emphasize the indisputable nature of a claim or evidence. Ludwig AI indicates that its primary function is to assert the validity of a statement, making it resistant to challenges. It is most frequently found in science and news media, suggesting a formal and precise tone. While effective, it's best used judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal in casual contexts. Alternatives like "irrefutable" or "indisputable" may be suitable substitutes depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

irrefutable

A direct synonym, indicating that something is impossible to disprove.

indisputable

Emphasizes the unquestionable nature of a claim, suggesting it's beyond any doubt.

unassailable

Highlights the strength of a claim, indicating it cannot be attacked or challenged successfully.

incontrovertible

Focuses on the undeniable nature of evidence or facts, making them impossible to dispute.

uncontestable

Indicates that something cannot be challenged or disputed.

unquestionable

Stresses that something is so certain it doesn't invite questioning or doubt.

beyond question

Similar to 'beyond dispute', it means something is so certain it cannot be doubted.

beyond dispute

Indicates that something is so well-established it's not open to argument.

impossible to deny

Focuses on the undeniable aspect of a claim, making it difficult to reject.

conclusive

Suggests that evidence or arguments are decisive and leave no room for doubt.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be refuted" in a sentence?

You can use "cannot be refuted" to describe a fact, argument, or evidence that is so strong that it cannot be disproven. For example, "The scientific evidence presented is so compelling that it cannot be refuted."

What are some synonyms for "cannot be refuted"?

Alternatives include "irrefutable", "indisputable", "unassailable", or "incontrovertible". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "cannot be refuted" or "cannot be disproven"?

"Cannot be refuted" and "cannot be disproven" are very similar. "Cannot be refuted" suggests a broader resistance to any form of challenge, while "cannot be disproven" specifically focuses on the inability to prove something false. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "cannot be refuted" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "cannot be refuted" in formal writing, academic papers, legal documents, and persuasive arguments where you want to emphasize the strength and validity of a particular point. However, avoid overusing it in informal contexts.