flimsy grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

"flimsy grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something weak and unsupportive. Example: The defense provided flimsy grounds for their argument, so the judge dismissed the case.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Insurers pay as little as possible, often denying claims on flimsy grounds.

The Guardian - Opinion

He resisted the Falklands war on the flimsy grounds of a possible Peruvian peace initiative.

The Guardian

Once more, the "primacy of foreign policy" is asserted on flimsy grounds.

The Guardian - Books

"But we're concerned about his deportation on the flimsy grounds of non-renewal of his visa," Onyango said.

Independent

But many people are unhappy about the flimsy grounds for impeachment, particularly compared to the corruption allegations against congressmen.

The Guardian

It is embarrassing for an economist of Mr Krugman's calibre to be arguing in such a prominent place, on such flimsy grounds, for such a risky policy.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

But he never really expected the decision to go against us, I think, because this was such flimsy ground.

The New York Times

In Ray's immediate panic, Daniels suggests the flimsy ground on which his new life is built and the improbability that he has indeed changed.

The Guardian

One reason for the higher surplus next year is that the Treasury has not incorporated the cost of the ULS and vehicle excise duty concessions into its projections, on the somewhat flimsy ground that these measures remain subject to consultation.

The Economist

But Sudan's Islamist government continues to refuse to let such a force into Darfur on the flimsy ground that they would amount to a "conspiracy for confiscating the country's sovereignty .This is monstrous.

The Economist

It accused him of aiding the enemy, a crime that carries the death penalty, on the flimsy ground that his leaks were published online where al-Qaeda could see them.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing an argument, use "flimsy grounds" to express that the argument lacks substance and is easily refuted.

Common error

Avoid using "flimsy grounds" when the actual problem is malicious intent or deception, not just poor reasoning. Flimsy implies a lack of strength, not necessarily dishonesty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flimsy grounds" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object of a preposition (e.g., on flimsy grounds) or as a complement. Ludwig examples show it describing the reasons or justifications behind actions or decisions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flimsy grounds" is a noun phrase commonly used to describe weak or unconvincing reasons or justifications. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. Its frequent appearance in news and media sources indicates its relevance in discussing and critiquing arguments in various contexts. While the phrase is generally appropriate for formal settings, it's important to ensure that the weakness, rather than malicious intent, is the key issue being conveyed. Alternatives like "weak justification" or "tenuous basis" can be used to provide subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weak justification

Focuses on the inadequacy of the reasoning or support provided.

tenuous basis

Emphasizes the fragility and lack of solid foundation for something.

shaky foundation

Highlights the instability and potential for collapse of a claim or argument.

dubious premise

Points to the questionable or uncertain nature of the underlying assumption.

unconvincing rationale

Stresses the failure to persuade or provide adequate reasons.

inadequate support

Directly addresses the lack of sufficient evidence or backing.

groundless assertion

Highlights the complete absence of any factual or logical basis.

insubstantial argument

Focuses on the lack of weight or significance in the presented case.

poorly supported claim

Emphasizes the weakness and deficiency in the backing for a statement.

specious reasoning

Indicates that the logic used is deceptively attractive but ultimately flawed.

FAQs

What does it mean to say something is based on "flimsy grounds"?

Saying something is based on "flimsy grounds" means it lacks a solid foundation of evidence or logic and is therefore easily questioned or dismissed.

How can I use "flimsy grounds" in a sentence?

You might say, "The prosecution's case rested on "flimsy grounds", so the jury acquitted the defendant." Another option: "The company rejected his proposal on the "flimsy grounds" that it was too expensive."

What are some alternatives to "flimsy grounds"?

Alternatives include "weak justification", "tenuous basis", or "shaky foundation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "flimsy grounds" in formal writing?

Yes, "flimsy grounds" is appropriate for formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's often used in news reporting, legal contexts, and academic discussions to critique the weakness of arguments or justifications.