intricate argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intricate argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a complex or detailed reasoning or discussion on a particular topic. Example: "The philosopher presented an intricate argument that challenged the conventional views on morality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

At the center of Bell's subtle and intricate argument is religion.

The New York Times - Books

He embarks on an intricate argument with himself about what a revolutionary film would be, and the possibility of making one.

The Guardian - Film

In his book, "Breaking the Veil of Silence" he devotes a chapter to an intricate argument designed to show that "collective guilt" does exist, and that people must therefore repent for things done by their compatriots and forebears, even if they had no direct involvement.

The Economist

While Kant presents a complicated and intricate argument to explain the normative authority of the categorical imperative, he claims that hypothetical imperatives require "no special discussion," and spends comparatively little time discussing them (4:417).

SEP

How could these intricate argument structures play out in the world?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

These sophisticated proposals and the intricate arguments urged in favour of them contrast with a more widely accessible critique of the idea of "scientific truth" that also starts from Kuhn's suspicion that the idea of truth as correspondence to mind-independent reality makes no sense.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Amid the intricate legal argument, there will be one moment that will perhaps linger most in the memory.

The Guardian

The four-day hearing on the divisive constitutional issue will be broadcast live, testing the public's appetite for intricate legal argument, arcane vocabulary and historical precedents.

The Guardian

It seems not to have occurred to Hume that Newton's mode of presentation in the Principia was a deliberate one to avoid controversy with those who could not follow its intricate geometric arguments.

SEP

While the Bali Hindus managed to circumvent the law through intricate theological arguments, many other groups who, like the Mentawai islanders, believed that everything -- humans, animals, plants, even inanimate objects -- had a soul, were forced to become either Muslim or Christian.

The New York Times - Arts

The publication of Parfit's first book, Reasons and Persons (1984), created a sensation among English-speaking academic philosophers, who were impressed by its originality, its intricate and ingenious argument, its immense fertility, and its panoramic scope.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intricate argument", ensure that the complexity is justified by the subject matter. Avoid using it simply to sound sophisticated if the argument itself is straightforward.

Common error

Avoid using "intricate argument" when a simpler, more direct explanation would suffice. Overusing complex language can obscure your meaning and alienate your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intricate argument" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "intricate" modifies the noun "argument". It describes the characteristic of the argument, indicating its complexity and detailed nature. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe a complex and detailed reasoning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intricate argument" is a valid and useful phrase for describing a complex and detailed line of reasoning. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts such as academic, scientific, and news-related writing. While not the most common phrase, its specific nuance of detailed complexity makes it valuable when a more general term like "complex argument" doesn't quite capture the full picture. When using the phrase, be mindful of avoiding unnecessary jargon and ensuring that the complexity is warranted by the subject matter. Some alternatives include "complex line of reasoning" and "sophisticated reasoning".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex line of reasoning

Replaces "intricate argument" with a focus on the complexity of the reasoning process.

sophisticated reasoning

Emphasizes the advanced and refined nature of the argument.

detailed justification

Highlights the level of detail and supportive evidence in the argument.

elaborate explanation

Focuses on the thorough and expansive nature of the explanation provided.

finely spun theory

Suggests the argument is delicate and carefully constructed.

subtle line of reasoning

Emphasizes the understated and nuanced nature of the argument.

in-depth analysis

Focuses on the thoroughness and depth of the analytical approach.

involved explanation

Highlights the complicated and complex character of the explanation.

nuanced position

Emphasizes the subtle distinctions and delicate balance of the argument.

complex thesis

Replaces 'argument' with 'thesis', emphasizing the central claim or proposition.

FAQs

How can I use "intricate argument" in a sentence?

You can use "intricate argument" to describe a complex or detailed line of reasoning. For example, "The lawyer presented an intricate argument to defend her client".

What are some alternatives to "intricate argument"?

Alternatives include "complex line of reasoning", "sophisticated reasoning", or "detailed justification", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "intricate argument" formal or informal?

"Intricate argument" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or news-related contexts. It may sound overly elaborate in casual conversation.

How does "intricate argument" differ from "complex argument"?

While both terms describe a challenging line of reasoning, "intricate argument" suggests a more delicate and detailed structure, while "complex argument" simply indicates difficulty in understanding.