obvious argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "obvious argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe a statement or idea that is easily understandable and does not require much explanation. Example: "The professor's conclusion was supported by an obvious argument that even the non-experts in the audience could follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

With no obvious argument to reset their share prices, a delisting was inevitable.

The New York Times

The obvious argument for being friends with America defending western Europe is gone.

The Economist

But the most obvious argument is that England has done quite well by women with power, whether real or symbolic.

The New Yorker

But in the end, the screamingly obvious argument against the Chromebook Pixel boils down to two words: MacBook Air.

The New York Times

The stronger argument for a major government response to climate change is the more obvious argument: climate change.

The New York Times

And urban and peri-urban areas can be scenic too (this counters the other obvious argument that rural-dwellers should work more from home).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

But like many obvious arguments, this one is thoroughly misleading.

The New York Times

There was no talk of a ban here, just a polite appeal to obvious arguments.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There are obvious arguments that can be made for why Liverpool could have done more to keep Gerrard.

The Guardian - Sport

For all the obvious arguments against that — the 11 Hall of Famers on the '92 team, the gold medal it won in Barcelona by an average of 43 points, some guy named Jordan — one overlooked point in that debate is James himself.

The New York Times - Sports

There are three obvious arguments for this premise, two of them presented explicitly by Unger, and the other by Geach.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obvious argument" when you want to highlight that a point is easily understood and requires little elaboration. It adds emphasis to the clarity of your reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "obvious argument" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound condescending or as if you're underestimating your audience's intelligence. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "clear rationale" or "evident justification" to maintain a respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obvious argument" functions as a noun phrase where "obvious" modifies the noun "argument". It is used to describe an argument that is easily understood or readily apparent. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it's often used to highlight a point's clarity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obvious argument" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a point that is easily understood. As indicated by Ludwig, its primary function is to emphasize the clarity and straightforwardness of an idea, often with the goal of persuasion or reinforcement. It's frequently used in news and media, as well as in scientific and business contexts. To avoid overuse and maintain a respectful tone, consider using alternatives such as "clear rationale" or "evident justification". While generally neutral in register, be mindful of your audience to avoid sounding condescending.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear rationale

Emphasizes the clarity and logical structure of the reasoning.

evident justification

Highlights the easily perceived validity of the reason or defense.

plain reasoning

Focuses on the simplicity and straightforwardness of the logic.

unquestionable logic

Stresses the undeniable and irrefutable nature of the reasoning.

self-evident point

Highlights that the idea is so clear it doesn't require further explanation.

inescapable conclusion

Focuses on the inevitability and certainty of the result of the reasoning.

undeniable case

Emphasizes the strength and compelling nature of the evidence.

straightforward deduction

Highlights the direct and uncomplicated nature of the inference.

simple explanation

Focuses on ease of understanding and lack of complexity in the reasoning.

patent assertion

Highlights how easily recognizable and clear is the argument made.

FAQs

How can I use "obvious argument" in a sentence?

You can use "obvious argument" to describe a point that is easily understood and requires little explanation. For example: "The "obvious argument" in favor of the policy is its potential to reduce costs."

What are some alternatives to "obvious argument"?

Alternatives to "obvious argument" include "clear rationale", "evident justification", or "plain reasoning". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very obvious argument"?

While not grammatically incorrect, using "very" before "obvious argument" can be redundant, as "obvious" already implies a high degree of clarity. Consider using stronger alternatives, or simply rely on ""obvious argument"" alone.

What's the difference between "obvious argument" and "compelling argument"?

"Obvious argument" refers to an argument that is easy to understand, while "compelling argument" indicates an argument that is persuasive and convincing. An argument can be both "obvious" and compelling, but they emphasize different qualities.