it was nonsensical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was nonsensical" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that lacks meaning or makes no sense in a particular context. Example: "After reading the article, I concluded that it was nonsensical and failed to address the main issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"It was nonsensical and we can still feel its effects 50 years on.

BBC

"He said it was nonsensical because the correspondence was innocuous".

The New York Times

It caused an immediate uproar among students, parents and teachers in New York, who said it was nonsensical and unfair.

The New York Times

One said it was nonsensical to suggest that a company could put on a "cloak of invisibility" by declaring itself a compounder.

The New York Times - Health

It was nonsensical to be jealous of a woman who had made it her life's purpose to decry pride and vanity and sins of the flesh, to decry most things, if the magazines she delivered were anything to go by.

The New Yorker

It was nonsensical and didn't actually have anything to do with Obama, and was one of the first instances of the phrase being used ironically, according to online meme encyclopedia Know Your Meme.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Daniels' touch is all over this movie, which is as sensational as it is nonsensical, with its overheated blend of sex, race and murder.

Huffington Post

Well, obviously, it is nonsensical.

The New Yorker

It's nonsensical to me.

The Guardian

"In that sense, it's nonsensical.

The New York Times

This is not only morally wrong, it is nonsensical.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was nonsensical", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For example, specify "the argument was nonsensical" instead of just "it was nonsensical" if the subject is unclear.

Common error

While "it was nonsensical" is acceptable, frequent use can sound informal or conversational in formal writing. In such cases, replace with more sophisticated synonyms such as "it was illogical", "it was an absurdity", or "it defied reason".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was nonsensical" functions as a subjective assessment, expressing a negative judgment about something deemed illogical or unreasonable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was nonsensical" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to express that something lacks logic or reason. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in English writing. While versatile, it should be used thoughtfully in formal contexts, potentially favoring more refined alternatives. It frequently appears in news and media, serving to convey a speaker's disagreement or critical evaluation. When clarity is paramount, make sure the context clearly defines the subject being criticized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was absurd

Replaces "nonsensical" with a term emphasizing the ridiculousness of the situation.

it was illogical

Focuses on the lack of logical reasoning behind something.

it made no sense

A more direct and simpler way of expressing the lack of understanding.

it was unreasonable

Highlights the unfair or unjust nature of something.

it was irrational

Similar to illogical, but may imply a stronger emotional component.

it was preposterous

Suggests the idea was not just silly but outrageous and unbelievable.

it was fatuous

Implies foolishness or silliness, often in a self-satisfied way.

it was asinine

A more derogatory way of saying something was extremely stupid or foolish.

it defied logic

Emphasizes that something could not be explained or understood through reasoning.

it was senseless

Suggests a lack of purpose or meaning, making something seem futile.

FAQs

What does "it was nonsensical" mean?

The phrase "it was nonsensical" means that something was illogical, unreasonable, or made no sense. It implies a lack of coherent thought or a flawed rationale.

What can I say instead of "it was nonsensical"?

You can use alternatives like "it was absurd", "it was illogical", or "it made no sense" depending on the context.

Is "it was nonsensical" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it was nonsensical" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English sentence structure and uses the past tense of the verb "to be" with an appropriate adjective.

How can I use "it was nonsensical" in a sentence?

You can use "it was nonsensical" to express disagreement or disbelief about something. For example: "The proposal was rejected because "it was nonsensical" to expect such a high return on investment in such a short period of time."