least reasonable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least reasonable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is the least logical or sensible among a group of options or opinions. Example: "Out of all the proposals, I found his to be the least reasonable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Since the idea of something's being created ex nihilo is less reasonable than the idea of its being re-created, and since the idea of creation ex nihilo has already been proven true by reason, therefore, a fortiori, surely belief in resurrection is at least reasonable.

SEP

The least reasonable people often got the most time to speak.

The New Yorker

In any rational legal universe, there is now at least reasonable doubt about the defendant's guilt".

The New York Times

When it comes to payday loans, the initial terms can seem, if not enticing, at least reasonable.

The Guardian - Money

In the case of Mr. Barnett and Mr. Rosen, their offerings seem at least reasonable given their locations.

The New York Times

I had thought that flights would be at least reasonable on/around this date but they look expensive.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

As demand from the growing human population rises, the food industry and the chemical industry face similar problems of scaling operations while sourcing the largest possible amount of at least reasonable-quality raw materials.

Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies

Thus, success looks increasingly improbable--at least at reasonable cost in reasonable time.

Huffington Post

This was not quite an income tax, since it was not based on a percentage of each year's production, but it was at least a reasonable figure based on a reasonable production average.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Or at least a reasonable facsimile thereof.

The New York Times

Piquero argued that courts should consider more community-service programs, or at least apply reasonable fees.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "least reasonable", ensure you've clearly established the set of options or arguments you're comparing. This provides context and makes the judgment more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "least reasonable" when a milder term like "questionable" or "debatable" would suffice. Overstating can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least reasonable" functions as a superlative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate the lowest degree of reasonability. As Ludwig AI states, it correctly labels the minimum level of rationality within a group.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "least reasonable" is a grammatically sound and readily understood construction used to denote the minimum level of rationality among a set of options. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability. While not exceedingly common, the phrase finds its usage primarily in news, science, and formal writing, serving the purpose of critical evaluation. When using "least reasonable", ensure a clear context for comparison and avoid overstatement for maximum impact. Alternatives like "most illogical" or "most irrational" can provide nuanced substitutes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most illogical

Emphasizes the lack of logical thinking, focusing on the absence of coherent reasoning.

most irrational

Highlights the deviation from rationality and sound judgment.

utterly preposterous

Indicates something extremely absurd and ridiculous, lacking any sense of reason.

entirely unfounded

Stresses the absence of any basis or support in facts or evidence.

wholly absurd

Emphasizes the complete lack of sense or logic, highlighting its ridiculous nature.

patently misguided

Points out the obvious error in judgment or direction, highlighting the flawed reasoning.

decidedly unsound

Focuses on the lack of reliability or stability in terms of reasoning or judgment.

palpably flawed

Indicates the obvious and easily noticeable imperfections or defects in the reasoning.

manifestly dubious

Highlights the clear and apparent doubtfulness or uncertainty of the reasoning.

demonstrably fallacious

Emphasizes the clear and provable errors in reasoning, making it logically unsound.

FAQs

What does "least reasonable" mean?

The phrase "least reasonable" describes something that is the furthest from being logical, sensible, or justifiable within a set of options or ideas. It implies a lack of sound judgment or rationale.

When is it appropriate to use "least reasonable" in writing?

Use "least reasonable" when you want to express a strong disagreement or critique of an idea or action. It's most appropriate when you can provide a clear explanation of why it lacks logic or justification.

What are some alternatives to saying "least reasonable"?

You can use alternatives like "most illogical", "most irrational", or "entirely unfounded" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "least reasonable" differ from "less reasonable"?

"Least reasonable" implies that something is the absolute furthest from being logical or sensible among multiple options. "Less reasonable", on the other hand, simply indicates that something is not as logical or sensible as another option, without necessarily being the worst.