intellectually defensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intellectually defensible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing arguments, theories, or positions that can be justified or supported through logical reasoning and evidence. Example: "The author's claims are intellectually defensible, as they are backed by extensive research and sound reasoning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

And I knew it had to be intellectually defensible.

The New Yorker

We are not defining Hubbard and Summers as the only two intellectually defensible options.

The New York Times

Seems to me that the Islamist viewpoint is more intellectually defensible and consistent.

The New York Times

"What I cared about most was that it be intellectually defensible, and that it engages a big audience in a variety of ideas".

The New Yorker

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

Lord Heseltine effectively accused Mr Blair of a lack of nerve as he dismissed the government's five economic tests as a "protective barrier" behind which it could "cower in order to have apparently intellectually defensible reasons for putting things off".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Sometimes these claims are not really defensible intellectually.

The New York Times

As for Hansen, his use of qualifiers like "virtually" and "in the US" means that his statement may be factually defensible, but it is intellectually dishonest because it implies an absence of independent research.

The Guardian

Intellectually compatible?

The New York Times

Intellectually voracious.

The New York Times

Were our actions defensible?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intellectually defensible" when you want to convey that an argument or idea can withstand scrutiny and is supported by reason and evidence. Make sure that the context provides the necessary evidence to support this claim.

Common error

Avoid using "intellectually defensible" loosely. It implies a high standard of reasoning. Ensure your argument genuinely meets this standard; otherwise, it can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intellectually defensible" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate that something (an argument, position, theory) is justifiable through reason and evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectually defensible" is an adjective phrase used to describe arguments, ideas, or positions that can be justified with sound reasoning and evidence. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its usage is most common in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When using the phrase, ensure your argument is genuinely supported by logic and avoid overusing it without sufficient justification. Consider alternatives such as "logically sound" or "rationally justifiable" to add variety to your writing. Remember that it's about logical and evidentiary support and is not interchangeable with phrases related to moral justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectually justifiable

Similar in meaning, but uses "justifiable" instead of "defensible".

logically sound

Focuses on the logical coherence and consistency of an idea.

rationally justifiable

Emphasizes the rational basis for defending a position.

conceptually sound

Highlights the solidity and coherence of the underlying concept.

defensible rationale

Highlights that the reasoning behind something can be defended.

argumentatively sustainable

Highlights the ability to maintain a position in an argument.

valid reasoning

Emphasizes the correctness and soundness of the reasoning process.

substantiated claim

Focuses on the evidence supporting the claim.

well-supported theory

Highlights the empirical or logical support for a theoretical position.

reasoned argument

Refers to an argument based on logic and evidence.

FAQs

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

Use "intellectually defensible" to describe a position or argument that is supported by logic and evidence. For example: "The policy change is "intellectually defensible" because it addresses a clear problem with a well-reasoned solution."

What are some alternatives to "intellectually defensible"?

Alternatives include "logically sound", "rationally justifiable", and "argumentatively sustainable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "intellectually defensible" the same as "morally defensible"?

No, "intellectually defensible" refers to the logical and evidentiary support for an idea, while "morally defensible" refers to whether something aligns with ethical principles. An argument can be "intellectually defensible" but not morally so, or vice versa.

What makes an argument "intellectually defensible"?

An argument is "intellectually defensible" if it is based on sound reasoning, evidence, and logical consistency. It should be able to withstand critical scrutiny and counterarguments.