potent argument for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "potent argument for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when presenting a strong or compelling case in support of a particular idea, position, or action. Example: "The research provides a potent argument for the need to invest in renewable energy sources to combat climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Safety is also a potent argument for standards.

The New York Times - Tech

As Sanders savages Clinton, Trump's poll numbers rise, and the most potent argument for a #NeverTrump independent presidential bid evaporates.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the most potent argument for your declining to sign what you regard as a devil's bargain is this: It violates your own principles.

The New York Times - Magazine

They argue that locally drilled natural gas can create jobs and increase energy security — a potent argument for a continent uncomfortably reliant on natural gas from Russia.

The New York Times

Indeed, genetic testing may become the most potent argument for state-financed universal health care.At the moment such tests are still in their infancy.

The Economist

Perhaps the most politically potent argument for Brexit is that the policy of free movement within the EU has allowed migrants from the Continent to take jobs away from British workers.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Of course, one of the most potent arguments for pushing the court to be bold on this issue will not be heard in any courtroom: next January gays could face the prospect of President Romney.

The New York Times

From the highest levels down, the Coalition really thinks the tax office should be allowed to do its job and that this kind of transparency serves serves little useful purpose – despite evidence from around the world that public transparency provides potent arguments for tightening tax laws and cracking down on avoidance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Smoothing out inconsistency is one of the original, and still most potent, arguments for care bundles.

Critical Care

Your mother does make a potent argument: pay for what you eat.

The New York Times - Magazine

His unguarded comments in the primary campaign provided fodder for Democrats asserting that he would privatize Social Security and Medicare — a potentially potent argument in a district where more than one-fourth of the people are on Social Security.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "potent argument for", ensure that the evidence or reasoning you present is genuinely impactful and convincing to your audience. Avoid exaggerating the strength of the argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting a weak or unsupported claim as a "potent argument for" something. Ensure your evidence aligns with the strength of the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "potent argument for" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It introduces a reason or justification that is presented as being particularly strong, effective, and persuasive. This aligns with Ludwig's AI assessment of the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "potent argument for" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a particularly strong and persuasive reason. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is correct and appropriate for use in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal writing. While alternatives like "strong rationale for" or "compelling case for" exist, "potent argument for" specifically emphasizes the forcefulness and effectiveness of the argument being presented. Remember to ensure your evidence supports the strength of your claim when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compelling case for

Changes the intensity of the argument from "potent" to "compelling", suggesting a strong and convincing reason.

strong rationale for

Replaces "argument" with "rationale", indicating a reasoned basis for something. "Strong" maintains the forcefulness.

persuasive reason for

Substitutes "argument" with "reason" and "potent" with "persuasive", focusing on the ability to convince someone.

cogent justification for

Uses "cogent" to emphasize clarity and logical appeal. "Justification" implies defending an action or decision.

decisive factor for

Shifts the focus to a determining element influencing a decision or outcome.

convincing evidence for

Highlights the supporting data or facts that make the argument believable.

powerful incentive for

Focuses on motivation and inducement, suggesting the argument is a strong driving force.

valid basis for

Emphasizes the legitimacy and soundness of the foundation supporting a claim.

substantial grounds for

Highlights the significant and weighty reasons backing an idea or action.

sound reasoning for

Focuses on the logical and rational thinking that supports a particular conclusion.

FAQs

How can I use "potent argument for" in a sentence?

Use "potent argument for" to introduce a compelling reason or justification. For example: "The study provides a "potent argument for" increased funding in renewable energy."

What are some alternatives to "potent argument for"?

Alternatives include "compelling case for", "strong rationale for", or "persuasive reason for" depending on the specific context.

Is "strong argument for" the same as "potent argument for"?

While similar, "potent argument for" suggests a particularly powerful and effective argument, while "strong argument for" simply implies a robust and well-supported argument. The difference is subtle but important.

When is it appropriate to use "potent argument for" instead of "good reason for"?

Use "potent argument for" when you want to emphasize the compelling and persuasive nature of the reason. "Good reason for" is more general, while "potent argument for" conveys a stronger, more convincing justification.