it defies logic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it defies logic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something does not seem reasonable or logical. For example, "It defies logic that he would make such an ill-advised decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It defies logic, its identity is as much a product of poetry as politics.

The Guardian - Opinion

Given its global nature, it defies logic to blame any one government or even country for this crisis, let alone a single party.

The Guardian - Opinion

It defies logic, say the bears, that its price should remain so high without any fundamental change in the sources of demand or constraints on supply.

The Economist

It will argue that it defies logic for it to lose its role as a children's heart surgery unit.

BBC

It defies logic.

Forbes

But it defies logic to make BP itself the criminal.

University of California, Berkeley

To some, that defies sporting sensibility; to others, it defies logic.

The New York Times - Sports

People who think the pyramids were used for storing grain — it defies logic and common sense.

The Washington Post

It defies logic to think that Britain would get better deals on its own.

The Guardian - Opinion

It defies logic that my babies were spared while thousands of others were not.

The Guardian

Somberly voiced by Common, the stonekeeper still pushes the old yeti origin story, although it defies logic, and squelches questions.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, be prepared to articulate why the subject matter lacks logic. Providing supporting evidence enhances the persuasiveness of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "it defies logic" to express personal preferences or tastes. This phrase implies an objective lack of reasoning, not a subjective dislike.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it defies logic" functions as an evaluative expression. It serves to critique or dismiss a statement, action, or situation as being contrary to reason. This evaluation is supported by Ludwig, which shows examples primarily used in contexts where the speaker or writer disagrees with something on logical grounds.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it defies logic" is a commonly used expression to convey that something is completely illogical or irrational. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news, media, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it's applied to situations genuinely lacking in reasoning, rather than merely subjective preferences. Alternatives include "it makes no sense" or "it is illogical". The expert rating confirms its appropriateness and widespread usage in reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's completely illogical

Directly points out the absence of logical consistency.

it makes no sense

Highlights the lack of coherence or intelligibility.

it is absurd

Emphasizes the nonsensical and unreasonable nature of something.

it is utterly irrational

Stresses the complete lack of rationality.

it's contrary to reason

Highlights the contradiction with established rational principles.

it is devoid of reason

Emphasizes the absence of logical reasoning in the subject.

it flies in the face of reason

Highlights direct opposition to logical thought and principles.

it strains credulity

Implies that something is difficult to believe, pushing the limits of believability.

it's preposterous

Highlights something as absurd and ridiculous.

it beggars belief

Indicates the situation is so unlikely as to be almost unbelievable.

FAQs

How can I use "it defies logic" in a sentence?

Use "it defies logic" to express that something doesn't make sense or contradicts reason. For example, "It defies logic that the company would invest in a failing project".

What does "it defies logic" mean?

"It defies logic" means that something is completely unreasonable or irrational, and that it goes against what one would expect based on logic.

What can I say instead of "it defies logic"?

You can use alternatives like "it makes no sense", "it is illogical", or "it is irrational" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "it defies reason" instead of "it defies logic"?

Yes, "it defies reason" is a perfectly acceptable alternative. Both phrases convey a similar meaning: that something contradicts sound judgment or rational thought.