is defensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is defensible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the validity or justifiability of an argument, position, or action. Example: "The decision to implement the new policy is defensible given the current economic climate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This reluctance is defensible.

The Economist

This execution is defensible.

The Guardian - Opinion

Diversification in itself is defensible.

The Economist

But the comparison is defensible.

The New York Times

From an economic perspective, this is defensible.

The New Yorker

So what exactly is defensible here?

The New York Times - Magazine

Do you think that is defensible?

The New Yorker

To some extent, their eagerness to showcase Trump is defensible.

The New Yorker

As a strategy, that is defensible in purely economic terms.

Independent

This is defensible if it achieves compelling law-enforcement objectives.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Is football just too dangerous to be defensible as mass entertainment?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is defensible", ensure you clearly articulate the reasons or evidence that support the claim's validity. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific context for the defense.

Common error

Avoid using "is defensible" without providing supporting evidence or reasoning. Simply stating that something is defensible without explaining why can weaken your argument and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is defensible" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that something can be justified or defended. Ludwig AI examples show it often qualifies decisions, strategies, or comparisons. It suggests the existence of supporting arguments or evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is defensible" is a versatile and frequently used predicate adjective that signifies something can be justified or defended with reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and appears most often in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When employing this phrase, be sure to provide supporting evidence to strengthen your argument and prevent the common error of stating defensibility without justification. Consider alternative phrases like "is justifiable" or "is supportable" to fine-tune your meaning. This guide offers practical advice and addresses common questions to enhance your understanding and use of the phrase "is defensible".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is justifiable

Emphasizes the moral or legal rightness of an action or decision.

is supportable

Highlights the ability to provide evidence or arguments in favor of something.

is reasonable

Focuses on the logical and rational basis for a belief or action.

is tenable

Indicates that a position or argument can be maintained or defended against attack.

is maintainable

Suggests that a position or system can be upheld and continued.

is vindicable

Implies that something can be cleared of accusation or suspicion.

has merit

Highlights the positive qualities and worthiness of consideration.

is well-founded

Emphasizes the solid basis and justification for a belief or action.

is excusable

Suggests that a mistake or fault can be forgiven or understood.

is pardonable

Implies that an offense is not serious enough to warrant severe punishment.

FAQs

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

The phrase "is defensible" is used to suggest that something can be justified or defended with reasoning or evidence. For example, "The company's decision to downsize "is defensible" given the current economic climate."

What can I say instead of "is defensible"?

You can use alternatives like "is justifiable", "is supportable", or "is reasonable" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "is defensible" or "is justifiable"?

Both "is defensible" and "is justifiable" are appropriate, but "is defensible" implies that something can be argued for successfully, while "is justifiable" suggests it is morally or legally correct.

What does it mean when something "is defensible"?

When something "is defensible", it means that it can be protected or supported against criticism or attack through reasoning and evidence. This implies that there are valid arguments or reasons to support the position or action in question.