defend the contrary position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defend the contrary position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions, debates, or academic writing when someone is asked to argue against a prevailing viewpoint or to support an opposing argument. Example: "In this debate, I will defend the contrary position that renewable energy sources are not as effective as fossil fuels."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But in his first book he had defended the contrary view.

SEP

Within the anarchist tradition there are strands that hold the contrary position, i.e. that markets do not rely on other institutions for securing property rights, but could provide services such as law-enforcement themselves; see for example the anarcho-capitalist positions defended by Murray Rothbard (1970) or David Friedman (1973).

SEP

Bacon knows that he is defending a position in rank opposition to the common view: "Since the whole rabble [at Paris] holds the contrary position, because of certain authorities, the views of the latter must be presented" ([OHI,II], 96 =TTUM, 90).

SEP

(Agnosticism here favours the contrary position).

SEP

In urging the contrary position, that God is incorporeal.

SEP

But there have been noteworthy thinkers who argued the contrary position, along with others who clearly felt the pull of the contrary position even while resisting it.

SEP

Furthermore, we will defend the position that theoretical concepts of normative-empirical collaboration can enhance empirical research in medical ethics.

BMC Medical Ethics

Truss defends the government position.

The Guardian

Respondent defends the position of the Court of Appeals.

Cornell University

This week, Trent Lott, the Senate majority leader, defended the position.

The New York Times

Brown defends the position of those training Scottish players.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defend the contrary position", ensure that you have a strong understanding of the main position being challenged to effectively construct your argument. Providing concrete evidence and logical reasoning will strengthen your defense.

Common error

Avoid misrepresenting the prevailing viewpoint you are arguing against. Accurately portray the opposing argument before defending the contrary position, otherwise, you risk weakening your own credibility and constructing a straw man fallacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defend the contrary position" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of advocating for an opposing viewpoint. It suggests a deliberate effort to support an alternative stance, even if it contradicts the prevailing opinion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defend the contrary position" signifies advocating for an opposing viewpoint, often in structured arguments. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness, yet its frequency is limited. Related phrases such as "argue the opposing viewpoint" or "support the alternative stance" offer similar meanings. Effective use involves a strong understanding of the primary argument and concrete evidence. A common error is misrepresenting the original position. The phrase finds its place in various contexts, from science to news and media. Although examples are scarce, the expression's intent remains clear: to challenge prevailing opinions and promote alternative perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

argue the opposing viewpoint

Replaces "defend" with a more general term "argue" while maintaining the idea of opposing a viewpoint.

support the alternative stance

Substitutes "defend" with "support" and "position" with "stance", conveying a similar meaning of advocating for a different viewpoint.

uphold the opposite view

Uses "uphold" to indicate support and "view" instead of "position", keeping the core meaning intact.

champion the reverse argument

Employs "champion" to suggest strong support and "argument" instead of "position", maintaining the sense of promoting an opposing idea.

advocate the dissenting opinion

Replaces "defend" with "advocate" and uses "dissenting opinion" to specify the contrary position.

maintain the inverse perspective

Substitutes "defend" with "maintain" and "position" with "perspective", retaining the sense of holding an opposing viewpoint.

assert the contrasting claim

Uses "assert" to indicate a strong declaration and "claim" instead of "position", keeping the core meaning of presenting an opposing argument.

promote the conflicting standpoint

Employs "promote" to suggest active support and "standpoint" instead of "position", maintaining the sense of advocating for an opposing idea.

justify the unconventional thesis

Replaces "defend" with "justify" and uses "unconventional thesis" to specify the contrary position.

validate the opposing theory

Substitutes "defend" with "validate" and "position" with "theory", retaining the sense of supporting a different viewpoint with evidence.

FAQs

How can I effectively "defend the contrary position" in a debate?

Start by acknowledging the strengths of the primary argument, then systematically present evidence and reasoning to support the alternative viewpoint. Use reliable sources and clear logic to make your case.

What are some strategies for "defending the contrary position" when it's unpopular?

Focus on the merits of the argument itself, rather than appealing to popular opinion. Acknowledge potential drawbacks of your position but highlight its unique benefits and long-term value.

How does "defend the contrary position" differ from simply disagreeing?

"Defend the contrary position" implies a structured and reasoned argument in support of an alternative viewpoint, whereas simply disagreeing may not involve providing substantial justification or evidence. The former is an active approach that requires more effort than the latter.

When is it appropriate to "defend the contrary position", even if I don't personally agree with it?

In academic debates, legal settings, or brainstorming sessions, "defending the contrary position" can be a valuable exercise in critical thinking and exploring different perspectives, even if you do not personally subscribe to that viewpoint. This promotes a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.