frail proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frail proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an argument or statement that is weak or lacking in strength or support. Example: "The author's claim was a frail proposition, easily dismantled by counterarguments presented in the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's a frail proposition.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

No sooner has he landed in America than he has tripped into one of its mustiest cultural traps — the proposition, advanced by scores of movies, that the South is little more than a barbecue pit of frail eccentrics, secluded matriarchs, white-linen Lucifers, and outright steaming maniacs.

The New Yorker

He became frail.

The New Yorker

How frail!

The Guardian - Opinion

He was very frail.

The New Yorker

He looked frail, fidgety.

The Guardian - Tech

Is Benedict frail?

The New York Times

His heart is frail.

The Economist

Human beings are frail.

The New York Times - Magazine

I was also frail.

The New York Times - Magazine

What about the frail beast?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "frail proposition" to critique an idea that lacks solid evidence or logical support. It suggests the idea is easily refuted.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "frail proposition" is somewhat formal. In casual conversation, simpler terms like "weak idea" or "shaky argument" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frail proposition" primarily functions as an adjective-noun combination used to qualify a statement or argument. It indicates that the proposition is weak, easily challenged, or lacks sufficient support. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "frail proposition" is a grammatically correct but rarely used expression to describe a weak or easily challenged argument. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, suggesting that it aptly portrays an idea lacking solid foundation. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to critically assess claims. Alternative phrases like "weak argument" or "tenuous claim" offer simpler substitutes, especially in informal settings. Remember to use "frail proposition" to denote a vulnerable idea needing stronger support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weak argument

Focuses on the lack of strength in the reasoning itself.

tenuous claim

Highlights the unsubstantial or shaky nature of the assertion.

fragile hypothesis

Emphasizes the vulnerability of the proposed explanation.

flimsy premise

Underscores the poor foundation upon which the argument is built.

shaky assumption

Focuses on the unreliability of the underlying belief.

vulnerable thesis

Highlights the susceptibility of the main point to criticism.

doubtful assertion

Suggests uncertainty or skepticism about the statement.

unconvincing argument

Emphasizes the failure of the argument to persuade.

debatable point

Highlights that the idea is not universally accepted and is open to challenge.

questionable theory

Highlights that the idea can be wrong or needs further demonstration.

FAQs

How can I use "frail proposition" in a sentence?

You can use "frail proposition" to describe an idea or argument that is easily challenged or disproven. For example, "The author's claim was a "frail proposition", easily dismantled by counterarguments presented in the debate."

What can I say instead of "frail proposition"?

You can use alternatives like "weak argument", "tenuous claim", or "fragile hypothesis" depending on the context.

What makes a proposition "frail"?

A "frail proposition" is weak due to a lack of supporting evidence, flawed logic, or easily identifiable counterarguments. It is vulnerable to criticism and unlikely to withstand scrutiny.

Is "frail proposition" a common phrase?

The phrase "frail proposition" is not very common, as evidenced by its limited occurrence in large corpora. More common alternatives include "weak argument" or "unsubstantiated claim".