convoluted reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "convoluted reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a line of thought that is complex, intricate, or difficult to follow, often implying that the reasoning is unnecessarily complicated. Example: "The lawyer's convoluted reasoning made it hard for the jury to understand the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

There is some convoluted reasoning behind this.

The Economist

When the killing started, Nshamihigo spent his days in convoluted reasoning as to why he would not condemn the genocide or its organisers.

The Guardian

It was the sort of convoluted reasoning of which any lawyer would be proud.The pace of foreign law firms opening in Brazil has picked up.

The Economist

Follow the convoluted reasoning: (1) The Republican Party, in control of all three branches of government and most of the statehouses, fat and sassy because the economy is rising and the war is being won.

The New York Times

Other statisticians have noted that "the argument seems to be basically illogical" [ 8], have complained about the "convoluted reasoning necessary to interpret a P-value" [ 10], and have lamented "why do we turn probability logic on its head in this way?" [ 11].

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

This recent political display of religiously convoluted rape "reasoning" in legislation is a national shame with deadly consequences for women here and abroad.

Huffington Post

So who would be able to prove that they had the standing to sue? It's a very convoluted, circular reasoning from the government".

Vice

This convoluted and somewhat abstruse reasoning that absurdly compartmentalised human rights for workers was but a cover for their real concern.

The Guardian

His reasoning was convoluted, but he got there in ways I won't pick apart here, but he got there.

Huffington Post

This reasoning seems flawed and convoluted, since plenty of other gruesome footage from the so-called war on terror has been published.

The New Yorker

Their reasonings for malcontent are both rudimentary and convoluted at the same time stink waves wafting off the festering turd that is the global mindset.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "convoluted reasoning" to describe situations where complexity arises from the subject matter itself, not from poor communication.

Common error

Avoid using "convoluted reasoning" as a substitute for deep or profound thought. Ensure the complexity serves a purpose and isn't simply obfuscation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "convoluted reasoning" functions primarily as a descriptor, modifying the noun "reasoning". It describes the nature of the reasoning process as being intricate and difficult to follow. Ludwig AI confirms the usability of the phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "convoluted reasoning" describes reasoning that is unnecessarily complex and difficult to follow. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriate usage. While carrying a negative connotation, it serves to critique or express skepticism toward a line of thought. It appears most frequently in news media and scientific contexts and has a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure that the complexity you're describing serves a legitimate purpose and isn't simply obfuscation. Alternatives include "intricate logic" and "muddled thinking", offering subtle shifts in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate logic

Focuses on the detailed and complex nature of the logic involved.

complex rationale

Highlights the complexity of the underlying rationale or justification.

tortuous logic

Emphasizes the twisting and difficult nature of the logical process.

Byzantine logic

Implies a highly complex, secretive, and intricate system of reasoning.

muddled thinking

Suggests a lack of clarity and coherence in the thought process.

arcane reasoning

Highlights the obscure and specialized nature of the reasoning.

obtuse logic

Emphasizes the difficulty in understanding the logic.

inscrutable reasoning

Focuses on the inability to understand or interpret the reasoning.

tangled reasoning

Suggests that the reasoning is confused and difficult to disentangle.

circuitous reasoning

Highlights the indirect and roundabout nature of the reasoning process.

FAQs

How can I use "convoluted reasoning" in a sentence?

You can use "convoluted reasoning" to describe arguments or explanations that are unnecessarily complex and difficult to follow. For example: "The politician's "convoluted reasoning" failed to convince the public."

What's the difference between "convoluted reasoning" and "complex reasoning"?

"Convoluted reasoning" suggests unnecessary complexity and can imply confusion, while "complex reasoning" simply indicates a high degree of intricacy without necessarily being difficult to understand. Complex reasoning is not necessarily negative, while "convoluted reasoning" has a negative connotation.

What are some alternatives to using "convoluted reasoning"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "intricate logic", "complex rationale", or "muddled thinking".

Is "convoluted reasoning" always negative?

Yes, "convoluted reasoning" generally carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the reasoning is unnecessarily complex and difficult to understand. It implies a lack of clarity or an attempt to obscure the true meaning.