cogent reason

USAGE SUMMARY

"cogent reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective that means "clear, convincing, and logically valid." Here is an example: After providing a cogent reason for their decision, the board unanimously voted against the proposal.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Sony's trip to Hollywood may no longer be a nightmare; but the company still has not found a cogent reason to be there.

The Economist

"Beyond casting aspersions on the legitimacy of petitioners' enterprise, Apple offers no cogent reason to conclude that they fall outside the shield law's protection," the ruling states.

The New York Times - Tech

But what cogent reason excludes new human lives from the protection against deliberate killing that all innocent human beings should enjoy?

The New York Times

The Met Office recently held a workshop of 25 experts to find out if there is a cogent reason why Europe has experienced such an unusual run of unseasonal weather.

Independent

Perhaps his most cogent reason for skipping the Derby was that he felt that the race came too early in the year, before a Thoroughbred had developed to his full maturity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You seem perplexed that anyone regards an embryo as "a form of life that must be protected". But what cogent reason excludes new human lives from the protection against deliberate killing that all innocent human beings should enjoy?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

We can see cogent reasons against shortening it.

The New Yorker

We can see cogent reasons against shortening it..

The New Yorker

Standards are appalling: managers get promoted without cogent reasons.

The Guardian

Mr. Rosenberg still has many cogent reasons for worrying about the markets and the economy.

The New York Times

"We have to give cogent reasons to young people why the Christian faith is relevant to them.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cogent reason" when you want to emphasize the clarity and persuasiveness of a reason. It suggests a well-thought-out and logically sound explanation.

Common error

While "cogent reason" is perfectly valid, overuse in informal settings can sound overly formal or pretentious. Consider using simpler alternatives like "good reason" or "valid point" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cogent reason" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination. The adjective 'cogent' modifies the noun 'reason', emphasizing its clarity, logical validity, and persuasiveness. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in formal arguments and explanations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cogent reason" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, signifying a clear, convincing, and logically valid explanation. According to Ludwig, its presence is particularly common in news, academic and scientific contexts. While suitable for formal settings, remember to consider the tone and context when choosing whether to use "cogent reason" or a simpler alternative. Its function is primarily to provide a strong and well-supported justification, with the effect of adding weight and authority to the argument. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct usage in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compelling rationale

Emphasizes the irresistibility of the provided justification.

persuasive justification

Focuses on the ability to convince the audience of the validity.

valid explanation

Highlights the logical soundness of the given explanation.

sound basis

Suggests a firm and reliable foundation for a belief or action.

strong argument

Presents a forceful and convincing line of reasoning.

convincing account

Highlights the believability and credibility of the given explanation.

defensible ground

Implies that the reason provided can be supported and justified against criticism.

substantiated claim

Emphasizes the evidence and support backing the given statement.

well-founded cause

Indicates that the cause has a solid and justifiable basis.

logical justification

Focuses on the rational and reasoned nature of the provided rationale.

FAQs

How can I use "cogent reason" in a sentence?

You can use "cogent reason" to provide a clear and convincing explanation for something. For example, "The lawyer presented a "compelling rationale" why his client should be acquitted."

What's a good alternative to "cogent reason"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "valid explanation", "persuasive justification", or "strong argument".

Is "cogent reason" formal or informal?

"Cogent reason" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic writing. Simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal contexts.

What makes a reason "cogent"?

A "cogent reason" is characterized by its clarity, persuasiveness, and logical soundness. It's a reason that's easy to understand and difficult to refute.