official argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "official argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a formal or authoritative reasoning or justification for a particular stance or position. Example: "The official argument presented by the government was that the new policy would benefit the economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

His official argument was that efficiency demanded a single organisation which would become a "French FBI".

Independent

Prepare to be assimilated" -- the official argument for breakup claims that splitting Microsoft will be good for technology.

The New York Times

Whirlpool's official argument was that these firms have been bolstering their market share by offering fancy appliances at low prices.

The New Yorker

So the Americans here face a conundrum: The official argument is that the time may not yet be right for elections in Iraq.

The New York Times

The government will try harder to tackle the bottlenecks that choke the power industry, for instance, and the paperwork that is snarling up big projects.The nub of the official argument is "calm down and trust us to do just enough".

The Economist

Their official argument is that there would not be enough time to do justice to two faiths, but it is hard not to suspect they are more concerned about preserving the state of mono-vision in which they seek to cocoon children at faith schools.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Or so went the official arguments.

The New York Times - Sports

Such official arguments have an air of special pleading.

Independent

But whose?May 1st 2003The official arguments have cut little ice abroad.

The Economist

Although the official arguments are highly moral, revolving around human rights and freedoms, the nature of the game is clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

But despite official arguments about nuclear power's low-carbon nature and potential contribution to more secure electricity supplies, the rise in its popularity has hardly been dramatic.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "official argument" when you want to refer to the formally presented justification or reasoning behind a decision, policy, or action, especially when questioning its validity or exploring underlying motives.

Common error

While "official argument" is suitable for formal contexts, avoid using it excessively in casual writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "reason" or "explanation" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "official argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a formally presented reason or justification, often implying scrutiny or potential skepticism, as Ludwig AI shows.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

21%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "official argument" is a noun phrase commonly used to refer to a formally presented reason or justification. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it's grammatically correct and frequently used in news and media and scientific contexts. While its frequency is notable, it's essential to use it judiciously, opting for simpler alternatives in more casual settings. The expert rating reflects its clear meaning and consistent use in authoritative sources. When employing this phrase, be mindful of its formal tone and the potential for implying scrutiny or skepticism towards the stated rationale.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stated rationale

Focuses on the reasoning that is officially presented or declared.

formal justification

Emphasizes the act of providing a formal defense or reason for something.

official explanation

Highlights the act of making something clear or understandable in an official capacity.

declared motive

Indicates the officially stated reason behind an action or decision.

publicly stated reason

Highlights that the reason has been openly communicated.

formal proposition

Focuses on argument as a suggestion or plan.

authorized account

Implies that the argument is sanctioned or approved by an authority.

sanctioned justification

Argument is explicitly accepted by an official authority.

articulated defense

Defense that has been expressed in a clear and detailed way.

professed intention

Highlights the declared aim or purpose behind an action.

FAQs

How is "official argument" used in a sentence?

You can use "official argument" to refer to a formally presented reason or justification. For example, "The "official argument" for the new policy was economic growth, but many suspected other motives."

What are some alternatives to "official argument"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "stated rationale", "formal justification", or "publicly stated reason".

Is "official argument" formal or informal?

"Official argument" leans towards a more formal register, suitable for professional, academic, or news-related contexts. In informal settings, simpler terms like "reason" or "explanation" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "official argument" and "common knowledge"?

"Official argument" refers to a specific, formally presented justification, whereas "common knowledge" ("common knowledge") refers to information widely known and accepted by the general public. They are distinct concepts with different uses.