more legitimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more legitimate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the legitimacy of two or more things, indicating that one is of a higher degree of legitimacy than the other. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I found that the second argument was more legitimate than the first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It makes it feel more legitimate.

The New York Times

So hypothecation can make tax more legitimate.

The Guardian

There's pressure to ask what's more legitimate".

The New York Times

Ecologists, however, have a more legitimate beef.

The New York Times - Magazine

A more legitimate Lords would only stand in the way.

The Economist

Though I still wish it were more legitimate".

The New York Times

There are more legitimate worries, mainly about safety.

The New York Times

Bicycling is simply a more legitimate form of urban transportation.

The New York Times

A more legitimate criticism is the minor role assigned others.

The New York Times

Matt Kuchar held more legitimate aspirations of glory.

The Guardian - Sport

I thought an M.B.A. might make me more legitimate.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "more legitimate" with synonyms like "more valid" or "more justifiable" to add nuance to your writing and avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "more legitimate" in highly informal settings where simpler words like "better" or "more reasonable" might be more appropriate. This ensures your language matches the tone and expectations of your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more legitimate" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a higher degree of validity, acceptability, or justification. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, supported by numerous examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more legitimate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase, as verified by Ludwig AI. It serves to highlight the greater validity or acceptability of one thing compared to another, often in persuasive contexts. It's predominantly found in News & Media sources and maintains a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure you are making a clear comparison and consider synonyms like "more valid" or "more justifiable" for added nuance. Be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in informal settings to maintain appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more valid

Focuses on the logical soundness or factual accuracy, rather than broader acceptance or authorization.

more justifiable

Emphasizes the defensibility or excusability of an action or decision.

more rightful

Highlights the just or lawful entitlement to something.

more genuine

Stresses authenticity and lack of pretense or deceit.

more fair

Implies impartiality and adherence to principles of justice.

more reasonable

Indicates that something is logical, sensible, and based on sound judgment.

more acceptable

Highlights that something meets required standard or level.

more credible

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of a source or claim.

more authorized

Highlights official permission or sanction.

more permissible

Indicates that something is allowed or not forbidden.

FAQs

How can I use "more legitimate" in a sentence?

You can use "more legitimate" when comparing two options and arguing that one is more valid, acceptable, or justifiable than the other. For example: "The second proposal seemed "more legitimate" because it addressed the core issues directly."

What are some alternatives to "more legitimate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "more valid", "more justifiable", "more reasonable", or "more credible". Each of these alternatives carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

Is it redundant to say "very legitimate"?

While not strictly redundant, "very legitimate" can sound somewhat awkward. It's often better to use a stronger synonym like "completely legitimate" or "undeniably legitimate" if you want to emphasize the high degree of legitimacy.

What's the difference between "more legitimate" and "more legal"?

"More legal" refers specifically to compliance with laws, while "more legitimate" has a broader meaning, encompassing moral, ethical, and social acceptance in addition to legality. Something can be legal but not legitimate, and vice versa. You can also check more lawful