loose logic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loose logic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe reasoning that is flawed, inconsistent, or not well-supported by evidence. Example: "The argument presented in the article was based on loose logic, making it difficult to take the conclusions seriously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

And this complaint is frequently fastened by a loose logic to a second one.

The Economist

But when the dancers turned into runway models (here the music accidentally dropped out), then returned to their initial playfulness, the loose logic slipped away: "Formosa Olivares" became as choppy as the Hudson River.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Informal Logic.

SEP

Free logic does not.

SEP

But it's not religious conservatism that's the main barrier to eating the delicacy, nor is it the loose, unscientific logic behind eating a big dick and having a big dick.

Vice

Featuring a loose, "dream logic" narrative, the opera follows Karen O as the leader of a band of other-worldly "virgens" as they journey through an emotionally charged coming of age story, of sorts.

Vice

The new classification is simpler, without loosing the logic of numbering, both from fundamental point of view (the physics of the transfer) and the technological one (the increasing of the values of the welding parameters).

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

Playing fast and loose with both logic and political correctness, Trance is a dazzling piece of post-Dreamscape madness that aims more for the eye than the mind, moving along at a rattling pace that effectively and enjoyably bewitches and bamboozles the viewer.

The Guardian - Film

It's not so much that they think we're stupid, but that their attempts to appeal to that perceived stupidity are so stupid in themselves; they've created a sort of self-perpetuating stupidity whirlpool capable of engulfing any loose molecules of logic within a six-mile radius.

The Guardian - Opinion

He gave the series a loose, intuitive structure; dream logic prevailed.

The New Yorker

It was finally left to Marc Racicot, the new chairman of the Republican Party, to break loose from the White House logic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "loose logic", ensure the context makes it clear what specific aspects of the logic are weak or flawed. Providing examples or further explanation strengthens your critique.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that an argument uses "loose logic" without specifying how the logic is deficient. Be precise; identify the fallacies, unsupported claims, or inconsistencies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loose logic" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "loose" modifies the noun "logic". It describes the quality of the logic being presented. Ludwig shows that this phrase is used to criticize reasoning.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "loose logic" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression used to critique reasoning that is flawed or weakly supported. While deemed correct and acceptable, Ludwig's analysis reveals its relative infrequency, primarily appearing in News & Media and Scientific contexts. Employing it effectively requires identifying specific deficiencies within the argument, preventing vague generalizations. Alternatives such as "faulty reasoning" or "flawed logic" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific nature of the logical shortcomings. It's important to be precise and descriptive to maximize clarity when using "loose logic".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Faulty reasoning

Emphasizes the presence of errors or flaws in the logical process.

Flawed logic

Highlights imperfections or defects in the logical structure.

Weak reasoning

Suggests a lack of strength or persuasiveness in the rationale.

Inconsistent reasoning

Focuses on the lack of coherence or alignment within the logical argument.

Unsound logic

Implies that the logic is not well-founded or reliable.

Dubious logic

Suggests uncertainty or skepticism about the validity of the logic.

Questionable reasoning

Raises doubts about the soundness or appropriateness of the reasoning.

Specious reasoning

Implies that the reasoning appears correct but is actually false or misleading.

Tenous logic

Emphasizes that the logic is thin, shaky or easily broken.

Illogical reasoning

Indicates a complete absence of logic or rational thought.

FAQs

What does "loose logic" mean?

The phrase "loose logic" describes reasoning or argumentation that is flawed, poorly supported, or contains inconsistencies. It suggests a lack of rigor and precision in the logical process.

How can I identify "loose logic" in an argument?

Look for unsupported claims, logical fallacies, contradictions, and a general lack of evidence. If the argument feels intuitively wrong or relies on emotional appeals rather than facts, it might employ "faulty reasoning".

What are some alternatives to saying "loose logic"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "flawed logic", "weak reasoning", "inconsistent reasoning", or "unsound logic".

Is "loose logic" always incorrect?

While "loose logic" implies a deficiency in reasoning, it may not always be completely incorrect. It could simply mean that the argument is not as strong or persuasive as it could be. However, if the argument contains logical fallacies, it can be considered incorrect.