defy logic

USAGE SUMMARY

"defy logic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone does something that seems to go against common sense. For example, "He continued to try to make the project work, despite the fact that it seemed to defy logic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The details of the narratives don't add up; they defy logic.

The New York Times - Arts

They are better when they have to defy logic, gravity and dire circumstances all at once.

The New York Times - Sports

But what K-pop has excelled at in recent years are large groups that seem to defy logic and order.

The New York Times

Also try to make the bottom appear flatter, so the fact that the bowl is standing (not rolling) doesn't defy logic.

WikiHow

It seems to defy logic.

The New York Times

And the circumstances often defy logic.

The New York Times

His achievements are huge, but defy logic.

Independent

Escher drawing — fantastical illusions that defy logic and strain the brain.

The New York Times

The Mets could defy logic, and financial concerns, and just go after him.

The New York Times

FOR reasons that defy logic, the nation's food safety functions are split.

The New York Times

It is filled with small and large idiocies that defy logic and experience.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defy logic" when you want to emphasize that something goes against common sense or accepted principles. It's effective for expressing disbelief or highlighting an apparent contradiction.

Common error

Avoid using "defy logic" when simply describing something that is unusual or unexpected. The phrase is most effective when there's a clear contradiction or violation of logical principles, not just a deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defy logic" functions as a verb phrase, where "defy" is the verb and "logic" is the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates an action that contradicts or goes against logical principles. The examples from Ludwig showcase its use in describing situations that are counterintuitive or nonsensical.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defy logic" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe situations that contradict reason or common sense. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various settings. When using "defy logic", ensure it truly represents a contradiction of logic, not just something unusual. Alternatives like "contradict reason" or "make no sense" can be used depending on the context. The phrase effectively conveys disbelief or highlights irrationality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contradict reason

Focuses on the opposition to rational thought.

fly in the face of reason

Highlights the direct opposition to what is considered reasonable.

defy rationality

Emphasizes the lack of a rational basis.

make no sense

Indicates a lack of comprehensibility or coherence.

baffle understanding

Stresses the confusion and lack of comprehension.

be beyond comprehension

Highlights the impossibility of understanding.

escape explanation

Focuses on the lack of a clear or rational explanation.

beggar belief

Emphasizes the difficulty in accepting something as true or real.

defy explanation

Highlights the impossibility to find an explanation.

defy understanding

Highlights the impossibility of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "defy logic" in a sentence?

You can use "defy logic" to describe situations or actions that contradict reason or common sense. For instance, "The company's decision to invest in that failing project seemed to "defy logic"".

What are some alternatives to "defy logic"?

Alternatives include "contradict reason", "make no sense", or "fly in the face of reason", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "defies logic" or "defy logic"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "defies logic" for singular subjects (e.g., "The decision defies logic"). Use "defy logic" for plural subjects (e.g., "These decisions defy logic").

What's the difference between "defy logic" and "ignore logic"?

"Defy logic" suggests a direct contradiction or violation of logical principles. "Ignore logic" implies a disregard for reason, but not necessarily a direct opposition to it.