naked assertion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "naked assertion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a claim or statement that is made without any supporting evidence or reasoning. Example: "His argument was nothing more than a naked assertion, lacking any factual basis to support it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

And the naked assertion of possible competitive injury does not establish that the Presiding Officer abused his discretion in declining to accord confidential treatment.

Cornell University

"Any concern for privacy in this case is a pious cover for an (also naked) assertion of power over online companies".

The New York Times

Any true politician – his successor, Peter Hall, for instance – would have regarded such a naked assertion of power as a provocative and pointless indulgence.

The Guardian

But he added that the recent changes were seen in the newsroom as an even more naked assertion of political will.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The legal argument in support of the notion that constructing a border wall is "essential to the national defense" boils down primarily to the naked assertion that, well, courts won't dare question the president.

The Washington Post

The firms also say that "the discussions between the US and the UK in this regard provide a much better path toward a workable arrangement than do naked assertions of sovereign power beyond borders".

The Guardian - Tech

This revolt, inasmuch as it was the assertion of naked will against reasoned planning, was irrational from first to last.

The New York Times

It was an assertion that after centuries of the naked public square (denuded of religion referents) the public now too had to go naked.

The Guardian - Opinion

A judge threw out child pornography charges against Todd Hoffner, the coach at Minnesota State University-Mankato, agreeing with his assertion that cellphone video of his three children dancing naked after a bath was innocent child's play.

The New York Times - Sports

Nor, for the same reason, can it be understood as an assertion of social relativism: the assertion that for girls to exercise naked is shameful in Athens is not opposed to the claim that it is not shameful in Sparta.

SEP

Few backed the agency's assertion that the whole-body imagers — the kind that provide an image of the naked body — would be welcomed by the public.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "naked assertion", ensure that the context clearly indicates the lack of supporting evidence or reasoning for the claim being made. Avoid using it when some evidence exists, even if weak.

Common error

Avoid using "naked assertion" simply to express disagreement. The phrase implies a complete absence of supporting evidence, not just a difference in opinion or interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "naked assertion" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement within a sentence. It describes a statement lacking supporting evidence, effectively conveying a critique of its validity. Ludwig examples confirm this usage, illustrating its application in academic and journalistic contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "naked assertion" is a noun phrase used to denote a claim presented without supporting evidence. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness and utility in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears more frequently in news and academic contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the lack of evidence to avoid misapplication. Remember, this phrase is more than just disagreement; it indicates a complete absence of support. Consider alternatives such as "baseless claim" or "unsubstantiated statement" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bare assertion

Focuses on the simplicity and lack of elaboration in the assertion.

bald statement

Similar to 'bare assertion', highlighting the blunt and direct nature of the statement without support.

baseless claim

Emphasizes the lack of foundation or support for the assertion.

unsupported claim

Indicates that the claim is not backed by any evidence or reasoning.

unsubstantiated statement

Highlights the absence of proof or verification for the statement.

groundless statement

Suggests the statement has no rational basis or justification.

arrant assertion

Indicates the assertion is completely false or unjustified.

unfounded allegation

Specifically implies the assertion is a claim of wrongdoing without proof.

empty declaration

Suggests the declaration lacks substance or meaningful content.

gratuitous assertion

Emphasizes that the assertion is unnecessary and lacks a clear purpose or justification.

FAQs

What does "naked assertion" mean?

A "naked assertion" is a statement or claim presented as fact without any supporting evidence, justification, or reasoning. It's considered a bare declaration lacking substance.

How can I use "naked assertion" in a sentence?

You can use "naked assertion" to criticize an argument or statement that lacks any factual basis. For instance: "His argument was a "naked assertion", completely devoid of evidence."

What are some alternatives to "naked assertion"?

Alternatives to "naked assertion" include phrases like "baseless claim", "unsubstantiated statement", or "bare assertion". These options all emphasize the lack of supporting evidence.

Is it appropriate to use "naked assertion" in formal writing?

Yes, "naked assertion" is appropriate for formal writing when you need to critique a claim lacking evidence. Be mindful of the tone; ensure it remains objective and avoids being overly accusatory. Choose alternatives such as "unsupported claim", "groundless statement".