subtle arguments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subtle arguments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing nuanced or carefully crafted points in a debate or discussion. Example: "The author presents several subtle arguments that challenge the conventional wisdom on the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

They develop subtle arguments from beginning to end.

The New York Times - Books

There are subtle arguments on all sides here.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is skeptical of subtle arguments, wondering what they really mean.

The New York Times

One of the IPPR's more subtle arguments for localism is that centralisation and uniformity increases inequality.

The Guardian

Identifying theology with formal logic, Aëtius methodically provoked his disputants and then reduced them to silence with extremely stringent and subtle arguments.

Britannica

Storr constructed his programme like a newspaper article, which is a compliment: most radio and TV don't bother to explore subtle arguments, use lovely language.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

No one was interested in a more subtle argument".

The Guardian - Books

Yet these critics miss a more compelling, and more subtle, argument against affirmative action.

The New York Times

THE more subtle argument is the one that Mr. Gross makes.

The New York Times

Anna did not mention the word love, but chose a more subtle argument.

The Guardian

His answer, to simplify a subtle argument, is that it routinely lets itself be carried away by its successes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subtle arguments", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to grasp the nuances being presented. Overly subtle arguments can be easily missed or misinterpreted.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle arguments" when the points being made are straightforward or obvious. Using it in such cases can sound pretentious or confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subtle arguments" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "subtle" modifies the noun "arguments". It describes the quality of the arguments being presented, emphasizing their nuanced and often indirect nature, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "subtle arguments" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe arguments characterized by nuance and indirectness. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase is most commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating its suitability for discussions requiring careful and thoughtful reasoning. When employing "subtle arguments", it is important to ensure the audience has sufficient context to understand the implied nuances. Alternative phrases such as "nuanced arguments" or "carefully crafted arguments" can be considered depending on the specific meaning intended. Overall, "subtle arguments" is a valuable tool for expressing complex ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nuanced arguments

Emphasizes the presence of delicate distinctions and fine details in the arguments.

carefully crafted arguments

Emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail in the creation of the arguments.

sophisticated arguments

Highlights the complexity and advanced nature of the arguments.

delicate reasoning

Focuses on the fragility and carefulness required in the line of thought.

implicit arguments

Suggests that the arguments are not directly stated but are implied or understood.

ingenious arguments

Highlights the clever and inventive nature of the arguments.

understated arguments

Emphasizes the subtle and restrained presentation of the arguments.

indirect reasoning

Highlights the roundabout or circuitous nature of the arguments.

finely drawn distinctions

Focuses on the careful and precise differentiations made in the arguments.

artful arguments

Highlights the skill and craft involved in constructing the arguments.

FAQs

How can I incorporate "subtle arguments" into my writing?

Use "subtle arguments" when you want to introduce nuanced or indirect reasoning. They work best when your audience is familiar with the topic and can appreciate the finer points of your reasoning.

What's a more direct way to say "subtle arguments"?

You might consider alternatives like "nuanced arguments", or "carefully crafted arguments" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "subtle arguments" formal or informal?

"Subtle arguments" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but its use is most effective in situations where careful reasoning is valued, such as academic papers or analytical discussions.

What is the difference between "subtle arguments" and "obvious arguments"?

"Subtle arguments" involve nuanced or indirect reasoning that may not be immediately apparent, while "obvious arguments" are straightforward and easily understood. The choice depends on the complexity of the topic and the intended audience.