sustained argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sustained argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe or emphasize an argument that is long and continuous. For example, "John presented a sustained argument in favor of stricter gun laws."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

There's no linear narrative, no sustained argument.

The Guardian - Books

Though occasionally arresting, these globs of discussion never coalesce into a sustained argument.

The Economist

The conversations here yield many thought-provoking comments, but the overall result is a collection of insights rather than a sustained argument.

The New York Times - Books

Indeed, his book "The Anatomy of Fascism" -- which doubles as a history and a sustained argument -- is not the most original study of the subject.

The New York Times - Books

However perverse Bataille seems, he argues, there is a systematic philosophy behind the work, although he was better at sudden insights than sustained argument.

The Guardian - Books

This determination, to import inside the story some of the heft of complicated facts and sustained argument, ought to be worth the effort.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

She addressed several policies, but in concise sound bites rather than sustained arguments.

The New York Times

His oeuvre thus consists of essays that display great erudition but make quick, darting points rather than full, sustained arguments.

The New Yorker

CITY MISMANAGEMENT -- The State's most sustained arguments on causation, however, are based on evidence that the Board of Education mismanages New York City schools and the City itself fails to devote a sufficient part of its revenues to them.

The New York Times

There was only the most general sketch of a second term agenda, only a relatively cursory defense of the president's economic stewardship, and mostly assertions, rather than sustained arguments, to back up his claim that the country is headed (slowly) in the right direction.

The New York Times

What the antagonists in the exchange fail to mention, and indeed, what seems to have gone largely unnoticed more generally, is that the page layout and typography of the printed book remain among the most effective mechanisms invented by human beings for communicating sustained arguments and explanations of a sort that require careful consideration and study.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When constructing a "sustained argument", ensure that each point logically connects to the next, building a cohesive and persuasive case. Provide sufficient evidence and reasoning to support your claims.

Common error

Avoid digressions or irrelevant information that can weaken a "sustained argument". Keep the focus sharp and aligned with your central thesis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sustained argument" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "sustained" is an adjective modifying the noun "argument". It describes a particular quality of the argument, emphasizing its continuity and depth. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

24%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sustained argument" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes an argument presented continuously and with considerable depth. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate for formal contexts such as academic writing, news reporting, and scientific discourse. It is important to construct a "sustained argument" by logically connecting each point, providing sufficient evidence, and maintaining focus on the central thesis. Related phrases like "well-developed argument" or "thoroughly reasoned argument" can be used as alternatives to provide variety in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well-developed argument

Emphasizes the completeness and elaboration of the argument.

thoroughly reasoned argument

Highlights the careful and logical thinking behind the argument.

comprehensive line of reasoning

Focuses on the breadth and scope of the logical progression.

detailed and prolonged discussion

Shifts the focus to the extended nature of the discussion and its level of detail.

in-depth analytical discourse

Emphasizes the analytical and discursive nature of the argument.

substantial and continuous debate

Highlights the significance and ongoing nature of the argumentative exchange.

consistent and unwavering rationale

Focuses on the steadfastness and logical basis of the reasoning.

rigorous and methodical argumentation

Emphasizes the precision and structured approach to the argument.

tenable thesis

Refers to an argument or point of view capable of being defended against attack or objection

well-supported position

Focuses on the evidence and justification backing the argument.

FAQs

How can I use "sustained argument" in a sentence?

You might say, "The author presents a "sustained argument" for climate action", or "The lawyer delivered a "sustained argument" about the damage which he felt the whole affair had done to policing".

What is a synonym for "sustained argument"?

Alternatives include "well-developed argument", "thoroughly reasoned argument", or "comprehensive line of reasoning", each emphasizing different aspects of a strong argument.

What does it mean if an argument is described as "sustained"?

Describing an argument as "sustained" implies that it is continuous, well-supported, and developed over a significant length, maintaining focus and coherence throughout.

How does a "sustained argument" differ from a simple assertion?

A "sustained argument" involves a logical progression of ideas with supporting evidence and reasoning, whereas a simple assertion is a statement without such elaboration or justification.