defying logic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defying logic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, action, or idea that goes against common sense or rational reasoning. Example: "His decision to invest in that failing company was truly defying logic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"Marvin is defying logic," says McLeish.

The Guardian - Sport

Defying logic, the child tax credit does not.

The New York Times

Defying logic, there is nothing frozen, icy or even hard about these silky rich squares.

The New York Times

The country's vast size, diversity, and complexity gives it a knack for defying logic and confounding accepted wisdom.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Deciding the title in the most anticlimactic of ways was fitting for a season defying logic and reason.

The Guardian - Sport

Updated at 9.51pm BST 9.21pm BST A trio of trees defying logic and growing on sand dunes.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It defies logic.

Forbes

"But Michael defies logic.

The New York Times - Magazine

This defies logic.

The New York Times - Arts

The practice defied logic.

The Washington Post

That defies logic.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defying logic" to emphasize a surprising or unexpected outcome that contradicts what is considered reasonable or predictable. It adds impact when describing situations that challenge conventional understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "defying logic" for minor inconsistencies. Reserve it for situations where the contradiction is truly significant and unexpected, not merely a slight deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defying logic" functions as a participial phrase, often acting as an adjective modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes something that goes against what is considered reasonable or predictable. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it correctly describes situations that do not align with expectations. This is shown through Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defying logic" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe situations that contradict common sense or rational expectations. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness across various contexts. It frequently appears in news and media, as well as academic writing. While it is grammatically correct, it's advisable to reserve its usage for truly significant and unexpected contradictions rather than minor inconsistencies. Related phrases include "contrary to reason" and "counterintuitive", offering alternative ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

illogical

A simple and direct synonym for lacking logic.

irrational

Highlights the lack of rational basis.

counterintuitive

Focuses on something that goes against what one would expect.

contrary to reason

Focuses on the opposition to logical thought.

flies in the face of reason

Emphasizes direct contradiction with rational thought.

unreasonable

Focuses on the lack of justification or fairness.

baffling explanation

Highlights the confusing or perplexing nature of something.

paradoxical

Highlights the self-contradictory nature.

absurd

Emphasizes the ridiculousness or nonsensical nature.

incomprehensible

Stresses the difficulty or impossibility of understanding.

FAQs

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

Use "defying logic" to describe a situation, action, or idea that contradicts common sense or reason. For example: "The market's unexpected surge was "defying logic" after the negative economic reports".

What are some alternatives to "defying logic"?

Alternatives include "contrary to reason", "counterintuitive", or "illogical". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "defying logic" formal or informal?

"Defying logic" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its impact lies in the situation being described, not the phrase's inherent formality. Therefore, it can be used in news articles, academic papers, and casual conversations.

What does it mean when something is described as "defying logic"?

It means the situation is happening, even though logical analysis would suggest it shouldn't. It goes against expectations and established patterns. Describing something as "defying logic" implies a level of surprise or disbelief.