conceptual argument

USAGE SUMMARY

'conceptual argument' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to an argument based on the principles of logic and abstract reasoning, rather than relying on facts or evidence. For example: "The professor presented a compelling conceptual argument to support her point of view."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Nor is this just a conceptual argument.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

However, Wakeford also advances a conceptual argument, and here problems begin.

The New York Times - Books

This contention, I argue, is mistaken both as a conceptual argument about legal positivism and as a descriptive claim about The Path of the Law.

Harvard University

The conceptual argument is powerful, and most of the authors' suggestions are common sense at its best: Set up 401(k) programs so that employees have to opt out if they want, rather than making them opt in.

The New York Times - Books

Having observed the debate over multidisciplinary practices and, more recently, the ABA Ethics 20/20 Commission's alternative business structures proposal, it is apparent that the position of many of the opponents of change is not empirical, but is essentially a conceptual argument, that terms such as "lawyer" or "legal profession" refer to natural kinds, not conventionally designated categories.

Cornell University

"You have this conceptual argument that it shouldn't cost that much to move money," says Käärmann.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Some numerical examples are employed to substantiate the conceptual arguments.

Knowledge-Based Systems

Nonetheless, the conceptual arguments developed here are relevant to all of the Kyoto flexibility mechanisms.

Energy Policy

We develop and verify our conceptual arguments in the U.S. toy industry by analyzing over 500 product recalls during a 15-year period (1993 2008).

Journal of Operations Management

We develop a multi-level conceptual framework by combining literature-based conceptual arguments and insights from an in-depth study of an exemplar case of co-opetition between Samsung Electronics and Sony Corporation.

Research Policy

He believed in common sense in the application of established principle, he looked carefully at the facts of each case, and he was not dazzled by theoretical and conceptual arguments.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "conceptual argument" when you want to emphasize that the reasoning is based on ideas and principles rather than empirical data.

Common error

Avoid using "conceptual argument" when the core of your reasoning relies on specific data, facts, or evidence. An "empirical argument" is appropriate in this context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conceptual argument" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "conceptual" modifies the noun "argument". Ludwig examples showcase its role in academic and philosophical discourse. The phrase denotes an argument primarily based on abstract reasoning rather than empirical evidence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

Academia

30%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "conceptual argument" describes a type of argument centered on abstract reasoning and logical principles, distinct from those relying on empirical data. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While not exceedingly common, the phrase appears in academic, scientific, and news contexts, signaling a formal register. Alternative phrases like "theoretical argument" or "logical argument" offer nuanced substitutions. When employing this phrase, clarity in defining underlying assumptions is key to prevent misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

theoretical argument

Focuses on arguments based on theory rather than empirical evidence.

reasoned argument

Highlights the logical and structured nature of the argument.

logical argument

Emphasizes the use of logic and reasoning in constructing the argument.

intellectual argument

Suggests a sophisticated and thoughtful approach to the argument.

abstract argument

Implies that the argument deals with abstract concepts and ideas.

philosophical argument

Connects the argument to the field of philosophy and its methods.

principled argument

Underlines that the argument relies on fundamental principles.

ideological argument

Indicates an argument rooted in a specific ideology.

notional argument

Emphasizes the hypothetical and speculative nature of the argument.

hypothetical argument

Highlights the speculative nature of the argument's basis.

FAQs

How does a "conceptual argument" differ from an empirical one?

A "conceptual argument" relies on abstract reasoning and logical principles, while an "empirical argument" is based on evidence and observable data.

What are some synonyms for "conceptual argument"?

Alternatives include "theoretical argument", "logical argument", and "philosophical argument" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "conceptual argument" in writing?

Use "conceptual argument" when describing a line of reasoning that prioritizes abstract ideas and theoretical constructs over concrete evidence.

Is there a risk of misinterpreting a "conceptual argument"?

Yes, a "conceptual argument" can be misunderstood if its underlying assumptions or principles are not clearly defined and explained.