something valid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something valid" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an idea, argument, or piece of information that is acceptable or legitimate. Example: "In order to support your claim, you need to provide something valid that backs up your argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

When you are a band who have something valid to say, the man still wants to shut you down.

Independent

Female lawyers can help, she said, because they can "understand the emotion and translate it into something valid for the court".

The New Yorker

"The N's motto is 'Real life now,"' Mr. Ascheim said, adding that "'Daria' is a smart show that has something valid to say about almost everything".

The New York Times

The answer to all these questions is no, yet you and Mr Clegg think you're saying something valid when you talk about nations racing ahead.

The Guardian

"All whistleblowers are immediately demonized - they have to be "crazy" lest people think that there is something valid to their view that they saw injustices so fundamental that it was worth risking their liberty to expose.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most will recognize filler for what it is and chomp at the bit for something valid to occur on screen.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"People saw that as something more valid than 'boyfriend,' " he said.

The New York Times

From the first edition of Émaux et camées (1852; "Enamels and Cameos") to the posthumously published Derniers vers (1872; "Last Verse"), he devoted himself to a form of literary miniature painting, attempting to make something aesthetically valid out of subjects for the most part deliberately chosen for their triviality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Acceptance is not of the model, as something universally valid, but of its use for a certain regulatory function and chemical substance.

Chemistry Central Journal

"Sisterhood is something so valid and important when you are growing up that I literally think the essence of it should be taught in schools," she said.

Huffington Post

We had to add something that was valid".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "something valid", ensure the context provides clear criteria for what constitutes validity, such as factual accuracy, logical consistency, or relevance to the argument.

Common error

Avoid using "something valid" in contexts where the criteria for validity are vague or undefined. This can weaken your argument and make it seem unsubstantiated. Always specify the basis for validity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something valid" functions primarily as a noun phrase where "something" is modified by the adjective "valid". As supported by Ludwig, it typically refers to a piece of information, argument, or idea that holds merit or is deemed acceptable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "something valid" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for denoting an idea, argument, or piece of information that is legitimate or acceptable. According to Ludwig, its function is to highlight a well-founded element in a discussion or situation. While it's not exceptionally common, it appears across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. To use it effectively, ensure that the criteria for validity are clear, and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "a legitimate point" or "a sound argument" can be used for similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a legitimate point

This alternative uses "legitimate" instead of "valid", implying lawfulness or genuineness.

a sound argument

This alternative replaces "valid" with "sound", indicating the argument is well-reasoned and justifiable.

a reasonable idea

This alternative substitutes "valid" with "reasonable", suggesting that the idea is logical and practical.

a justified concern

This alternative uses "justified" instead of "valid", emphasizing that the concern has a legitimate basis.

a well-founded belief

This alternative replaces "valid" with "well-founded", indicating the belief is based on solid evidence or reason.

a credible claim

This alternative substitutes "valid" with "credible", highlighting that the claim is believable and trustworthy.

an acceptable reason

This alternative replaces "valid" with "acceptable", indicating that the reason is satisfactory or adequate.

a convincing explanation

This alternative uses "convincing" instead of "valid", emphasizing that the explanation is persuasive and believable.

a substantive issue

This alternative substitutes "valid" with "substantive", highlighting that the issue is important and meaningful.

a defensible position

This alternative replaces "valid" with "defensible", indicating that the position can be justified and maintained.

FAQs

How can I use "something valid" in a sentence?

You can use "something valid" to refer to an idea, argument, or piece of information that is acceptable or legitimate. For example, "In order to support your claim, you need to provide "something valid" that backs up your argument."

What can I say instead of "something valid"?

You can use alternatives like "a legitimate point", "a sound argument", or "a reasonable idea" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "something valid" or "something legitimate"?

Both "something valid" and "something legitimate" are correct and have similar meanings. The choice between them depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Valid" emphasizes correctness or well-foundedness, while "legitimate" emphasizes lawfulness or genuineness.

How can I ensure my argument includes "something valid"?

To ensure your argument includes "something valid", focus on providing evidence, logical reasoning, and credible sources. Critically evaluate your claims and address potential counterarguments to strengthen your position.