defensible reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defensible reason" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a justification or rationale that can be supported or defended logically or ethically. Example: "The committee found that there was a defensible reason for the decision to increase funding for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

A partner's affair could no longer be treated by courts as a defensible reason to lose control and kill.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Coalition have wound back Labor's changes and have provided not one defensible reason for doing so.

The Guardian - Opinion

Maybe that would have been a defensible reason back in 1942 not to choose him to lead the Los Alamos project, though it would have been a mistake.

The New York Times - Books

There's no morally defensible reason why anybody should be slinking around it after dark, particularly following several glugs of bottom-shelf akvavit.

The New Yorker

There is simply no defensible reason for the administration to object to independent, retrospective scrutiny to make sure that it is playing by its own rules.

The New York Times

There is no intellectually defensible reason for stopping flowing traffic with what amounts to arbitrary roadblocks scattered all over the state's otherwise functional highways.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Sure, Mr Bush made mistakes, but they seem to have been honest ones made for defensible reasons.

The Economist

These are among the more defensible reasons Blunt joined those who decided to work for the Soviets.

The New York Times - Books

What if they espoused middle-class tastes or evangelical religion or (even) Whig politics for rational and defensible reasons?

The New Yorker

Society is not any greedier than it used to be, said Mr. Gray, a former lawyer, and sellers may have perfectly defensible reasons for doing what they're doing.

The New York Times

When push came to shove during the financial crisis, he went with Tim Geithner and Larry Summers, who were ultimately (and for some defensible reasons) more interested in preserving the financial system than reforming it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defensible reason", ensure that the reason you are presenting can be logically and ethically supported with evidence or arguments. Provide context to clarify why the reason is considered defensible.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "defensible reason" as the only possible explanation when other interpretations or factors might be at play. Acknowledge potential counterarguments or limitations to strengthen your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defensible reason" functions as a noun phrase where "defensible" modifies "reason", indicating a rationale that can be justified or defended. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. The primary grammatical function of the phrase is to provide justification or explanation for actions or decisions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defensible reason" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies a rationale that can be logically or ethically justified. Ludwig AI confirms its suitability in various contexts. It's often employed to provide justification for actions, decisions, or beliefs, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure the reason is supported by evidence and can withstand scrutiny. Alternatives such as ""valid reason"" or "justifiable cause" may be suitable depending on the context. However, avoid overstating the defensibility and acknowledge potential counterarguments. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "defensible reason" to convey sound reasoning and enhance credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

valid reason

Replaces 'defensible' with 'valid', suggesting a reason that is sound and well-grounded.

justifiable cause

Emphasizes the fairness and appropriateness of the reason, replacing 'reason' with 'cause'.

supportable rationale

Focuses on the ability to provide evidence and backing for the reason, using 'rationale' instead of 'reason'.

defendable justification

Highlights the capability to argue in favor of the reason, using 'justification' as an alternative.

legitimate basis

Indicates that the reason is in accordance with the law or rules, using 'basis' to mean the foundation.

plausible explanation

Suggests that the reason is believable and likely to be true, replacing 'reason' with 'explanation'.

cogent argument

Focuses on the clarity and persuasiveness of the reason, using 'argument' to indicate a reasoned case.

reasonable ground

Implies that the reason is logical and sensible, replacing 'reason' with 'ground'.

sound basis

Suggests a solid and reliable foundation for the reason.

tenable explanation

Indicates that the explanation can be maintained or defended against attack or objection.

FAQs

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

You can use "defensible reason" to justify a decision or action. For example, "The company had a "valid reason" for the layoff, citing economic downturns."

What are some alternatives to "defensible reason"?

Alternatives include ""valid reason"", "justifiable cause", or "supportable rationale", depending on the specific context.

Is "defensible reason" formal or informal?

"Defensible reason" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts. However, the level of formality may also depend on the surrounding language and the audience.

What makes a reason truly "defensible"?

A "defensible reason" is one that can be supported by evidence, logic, or ethical principles. It must be able to withstand scrutiny and potential challenges.