categorical argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "categorical argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions related to logic, philosophy, or reasoning, particularly when referring to a type of argument that is absolute or unconditional. Example: "In his essay, he presented a categorical argument that left no room for doubt about the validity of his claims."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A categorical argument of this sort would involve plugging in values (either point-valued or interval-valued) for each term in this equation and concluding that P(M|E) > k, where k is some constant with a value greater than or equal to 0.5.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The former we may stipulatively call categorical arguments; the latter, confirmatory arguments.

SEP

He also introduces loci from the subject and from the predicate into his discussion of categorical arguments.

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With his extended version of Aristotelian logic in mind (giving not-X equal billing), he gave (p. 30) a set of three transformation rules which allowed one to construct all valid two-line categorical arguments (providing you accepted the unwritten convention that simple names like X and not-X denoted non-empty classes).

SEP

The abstract of the paper published by T. B. L. Kirkwood and S. Melov in the September issue of Current Biology starts with the following categorical statement: "Compelling arguments eliminate the idea that death is generally programmed by genes for ageing" [ 1].

Aging

That's a categorical statement, but it's true".

The New York Times

In a gender-categorical world, the argument can quickly devolve to "You're acting like a typical (man/woman)!" Asking a partner to change, in this binary world, is expecting him or her to go against the natural tendency of his or her category — a very tall order.

The New York Times

(Yes, I get how categorical that statement is.

The New Yorker

This final criticism applies only when the explanatory argument is categorical; but in that case, a further argument would be necessary to close off this line of criticism.

SEP

If the argument is categorical, then its conclusion is (at least) that, where "E" stands for the sum of the relevant evidence, P(M|E) > 0.5.

SEP

Allowing for the change in terminology over the centuries, Butler's description can be read as a verbal explication of the categorical form of the Bayesian argument.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "categorical argument", ensure that the context warrants a strong, definitive assertion. Overuse can diminish the impact, so reserve it for situations where the evidence or reasoning is particularly compelling.

Common error

Avoid using "categorical argument" when the reasoning is nuanced or open to interpretation. This phrase suggests a level of certainty that may not always be appropriate, potentially weakening your overall argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "categorical argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a type of argument that is definitive and unconditional. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English, particularly when describing a type of argument that is absolute.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "categorical argument" is a noun phrase that describes a definitive and unconditional line of reasoning. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, although relatively rare. It is most frequently found in formal contexts, such as science, news, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants a strong, unambiguous assertion and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "definitive argument" or "conclusive argument" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. This phrase aims to persuade by presenting a line of reasoning that aims to be incontrovertible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Definitive argument

Replaces "categorical" with "definitive", emphasizing the conclusive nature of the argument.

Conclusive argument

Focuses on the argument's ability to bring a discussion to a firm conclusion.

Decisive argument

Highlights the argument's role in making a clear decision or determination.

Absolute argument

Emphasizes the lack of exceptions or conditions in the argument.

Unconditional argument

Similar to "absolute argument", stressing that the argument stands regardless of circumstances.

Clear-cut argument

Indicates that the argument is easily understood and leaves no room for ambiguity.

Explicit argument

Highlights that the argument is directly stated and leaves nothing implied.

Unequivocal argument

Stresses the argument's lack of ambiguity or doubt.

Irrefutable argument

Suggests that the argument cannot be disproven or challenged.

Indisputable argument

Indicates that the argument is beyond reasonable doubt or disagreement.

FAQs

How can I use "categorical argument" in a sentence?

You can use "categorical argument" to describe a definitive and unconditional line of reasoning. For example: "The lawyer presented a "categorical argument", leaving no room for doubt about the defendant's guilt."

What's a simpler alternative to "categorical argument"?

Alternatives include "definitive argument", "conclusive argument", or "decisive argument". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what fields is "categorical argument" commonly used?

"Categorical argument" is often used in fields like philosophy, law, and mathematics, where precise and unambiguous reasoning is essential. It also appears in news and media contexts when analyzing strong assertions.

Is there a difference between "categorical argument" and "strong argument"?

Yes. While a "strong argument" is generally persuasive, a "categorical argument" implies a level of certainty and absoluteness. A "categorical argument" aims to be definitive, leaving no room for reasonable doubt, unlike a strong argument that may acknowledge counterarguments or limitations.