plain reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "plain reasoning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to straightforward, clear, and logical thinking or argumentation. Example: "In this debate, I will rely on plain reasoning to make my case, avoiding any unnecessary complexity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But he also insists that he will not decide whether Britain has met these tests until after the next election.The reasoning is plain.

The Economist

That Gassendi is primarily concerned here with the character of Descartes's reasoning is plain enough: in the end and broadly speaking, the two are actually close in their views about mind and body.

SEP

This Tuesday, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals roundly rejected the district court's reasoning, making plain that attorneys who take on forfeiture cases should not be penalized for zealous advocacy--or the government's intransigence.

Huffington Post

Dissenters from the Bishop line of reasoning were out in plain view in the run-up to Thursday's cabinet meeting.

The Guardian

No amount of metaphysical reasoning can change the plain fact that Jungenfeld took advantage of Wainwright's necessities, and extorted the promise of five per cent.

Harvard University

But if Mill's style of reasoning and writing was plain and unadorned, it was at least clear and cogent.

SEP

He claims that "it is plain that men make use in reasoning of several axioms which are not yet quite certain" (The Method of Certitude and the Art of Discovery (undated); G VII, 183 (W, 49)).

SEP

As is often the case, his reasoning has been in plain view.

Los Angeles Times

Bond, however, said such reasoning runs counter to the "plain meaning" of the law, which says a legislator "may not serve" more than three terms in the Assembly.

Los Angeles Times

The chain of reasoning of cause and effect is plain and simple: the four winds cause disease, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Lingua Sinica

They usually are not so easily persuaded, but their reasoning probably was, by the evidence in plain sight, that the Delhi Metro would enforce what it said it would.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "plain reasoning", ensure your logic is easily followed by your audience. Avoid jargon or complex terminology that could obscure your points. Use simple, direct language to make your argument clear.

Common error

Avoid reducing complex issues to overly simplistic arguments under the guise of "plain reasoning". Ensure that while your logic is clear, it doesn't ignore important nuances or complexities of the topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plain reasoning" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe a straightforward and easily understood logical process. According to Ludwig AI, it's generally deemed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plain reasoning" is a noun phrase used to describe a clear and straightforward logical process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not overly common, it appears in a variety of contexts, with emphasis on news, science and formal communications. For alternative expressions, consider "straightforward logic" or "simple argumentation". When using "plain reasoning", ensure your points are easily understood, but avoid oversimplifying complex topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

straightforward logic

Emphasizes the simplicity and directness of the logical process.

clear-cut rationale

Highlights the clarity and decisiveness of the reasoning.

uncomplicated logic

Stresses the lack of complexity in the reasoning process.

simple argumentation

Focuses on the basic and easily understandable nature of the argument.

direct rationale

Highlights the unmediated and immediate nature of the reasoning.

basic reasoning

Emphasizes the fundamental and elementary nature of the reasoning process.

evident logic

Stresses that the logic is easily seen and understood.

accessible reasoning

Highlights that the reasoning is easy to understand for a wide audience.

unambiguous logic

Focuses on the lack of uncertainty or multiple interpretations in the logic.

understandable argumentation

Emphasizes that the argumentation is easy to grasp and follow.

FAQs

How can I use "plain reasoning" in a sentence?

You can use "plain reasoning" to describe a straightforward and easily understood thought process. For example, "The judge used "plain reasoning" to explain the verdict to the jury."

What's a good alternative to "plain reasoning"?

Alternatives include "straightforward logic", "simple argumentation", or "clear-cut rationale". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "plain reasoning"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that the logic or rationale behind something is uncomplicated and easy to grasp. It's useful in situations where you want to avoid ambiguity or complexity.

Is "plain reasoning" the same as common sense?

While related, they aren't identical. Common sense is often based on experience and intuition, while "plain reasoning" refers more specifically to a logical and clear thought process. You might use "common sense" to inform your "plain reasoning", but the latter is more structured and explicit.