successful argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "successful argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a debate, discussion, or persuasive writing where a point has been effectively made or accepted. Example: "Her presentation was compelling, and she made a successful argument for the need for policy change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

And a successful argument must appeal not to just anyone in general but to your friends in particular.

The Guardian - Opinion

A successful argument for a government manufacturing policy has to go beyond the feeling that it's better to produce "real things" than services.

The New York Times

Among Mr. Tarantino's achievements has been his successful argument that the maligned and neglected B movies of the past should be viewed with fresh eyes and unironic respect.

The New York Times

So when a panel considered whether Japan would emerge from its difficulties intact, no one made a successful argument that Japan could find its way back for years.

The New York Times

If the people editing the videotape need another Lemieux highlight, they might consider a stationary one: his successful argument with the officials in the third period.

The New York Times - Sports

But in the end, immigration has proved the most successful argument on the doorstep for the party's campaigners, especially given confirmation that Cameron has failed in his promise to get net migration down to the tens of thousands.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Successful arguments use the phrases "for example," "for instance," and "e.g".g

Independent

As for Mr. Huckabee's refusal to detail his reasons for granting clemency, Mr. Cox said that was intended to prevent other petitioners from mimicking successful arguments.

The New York Times

Bowne journeyed to the Netherlands and made successful arguments to the Dutch West India Company, which ultimately freed him and upheld the ideals of the Remonstrance, in a rebuke to the irascible Stuyvesant.

The New York Times

Those successful arguments could be applied to other letters it seems.

TechCrunch

Second, in different ways the logic masters insist on a necessity that is impossible to attain as the criterion for successful arguments.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When constructing an argument, ensure that your premises are accepted and embraced by your audience to increase the chances of a "successful argument".

Common error

Do not assume that what you find convincing will automatically persuade others. Tailor your argument to your specific audience to make it more "successful".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "successful argument" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'successful' modifies the noun 'argument'. It describes an argument that achieves its intended purpose of convincing or persuading.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "successful argument" is a grammatically correct and commonly understood phrase that describes an argument which has achieved its intended purpose. Ludwig highlights the phrase's prevalence in News & Media and Scientific contexts. To construct a "successful argument", it's important to consider your audience, provide solid evidence, and ensure logical reasoning. Alternatives like "persuasive argument" or "convincing argument" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase is suitable for a neutral to formal register, making it versatile for various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persuasive argument

Emphasizes the argument's ability to convince an audience.

convincing argument

Highlights the argument's power to change someone's mind.

valid argument

Focuses on the logical soundness and correctness of the argument.

effective reasoning

Shifts the focus to the reasoning process being successful.

winning argument

Implies the argument led to a victory or favorable outcome.

triumphant defense

Refers to an argument presented in defense that achieves the desired outcome.

compelling case

Describes the argument as presenting a strong and undeniable set of facts.

influential contention

Stresses the argument's impact and ability to shape opinions.

impactful explanation

Focuses on the explanation's effectiveness in making a difference.

cogent reasoning

Implies clear, logical, and persuasive reasoning.

FAQs

How can I make a "successful argument" in writing?

To construct a "successful argument" in writing, focus on clarity, logical reasoning, and evidence-based support. Understand your audience and tailor your argument to their perspective.

What's a good synonym for "successful argument"?

Alternatives to "successful argument" include "persuasive argument", "convincing argument", or "valid argument" depending on the context.

How important is evidence in a "successful argument"?

Evidence is crucial. A "successful argument" relies on solid evidence to support its claims and persuade the audience. Without evidence, an argument is unlikely to be convincing.

What role does understanding your audience play in creating a "successful argument"?

Understanding your audience is critical because a "successful argument" must resonate with their values, beliefs, and existing knowledge. Tailoring your argument increases its persuasiveness.