tenable argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tenable argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the validity or soundness of a particular argument or position in a debate or analysis. Example: "The researcher presented a tenable argument that was well-supported by evidence and logical reasoning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That is a tenable argument, but we conclude the instant case requires us to address whether Bowers itself has continuing validity.

The New York Times

"We had just seized a load of evidence that we hadn't the opportunity to examine yet … it didn't seem a tenable argument".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In the Oxford thesis, Ms. Kagan used the exclusionary rule to illustrate what she called "the dangers and long-term consequences of failing to provide a judicial decision with adequate support," and took the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Earl Warren to task for "making matters worse" when it applied the rule to the states without "a tenable legal argument".

The New York Times

The evidence reported here for health anxiety, empathy and alexithymia clearly show that Ferguson's arguments are tenable.

Health Psychology Review

This argument looks less tenable now that the jobless rate is back to its pre-recession level.

The Guardian - Business

Three days later, on January 24th, Nevada's Attorney General, Catherine Cortez Masto, said that she would reconsider her defense of the ban, noting that the circuit-court decision had rendered Nevada's argument "no longer tenable".

The New Yorker

He was able to examine in detail from the point of view of the divine law the respective claims of theology and philosophy to possess the best and surest way to human knowledge, to be competent to interpret the ambiguous expressions of the divine law, and to have presented convincing arguments that are theoretically tenable and practically salutary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"After careful review," Masto's statement read, "these arguments are likely no longer tenable".

Huffington Post

But there are crucial arguments still to be won Of course it suits Labour and the Conservatives to try to present the coming general election as being only between their two parties but that argument is less and less tenable.

The Guardian

This statement is not tenable.

British Journal of Sports Medicine

While biology or science in general cannot claim to answer certain questions definitively, it can delimit which arguments, moral pronouncements, or biblical interpretations are tenable.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When constructing a "tenable argument", ensure it is supported by credible evidence and logical reasoning. This strengthens its defensibility and persuasiveness.

Common error

Avoid building a "tenable argument" solely on personal beliefs or unsupported opinions. Ground your reasoning in verifiable facts and established principles to enhance its credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tenable argument" functions as a descriptive term, characterizing a specific type of argument. It emphasizes that the argument is capable of being defended or maintained. As Ludwig AI reports, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tenable argument" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe an argument that is defensible, justifiable, or reasonable. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and while not extremely common, it appears in various contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the argument is well-supported by evidence and logical reasoning. Alternative phrases like "defensible argument" or "valid argument" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defensible argument

Replaces "tenable" with "defensible", emphasizing the capability of being defended against criticism.

justifiable argument

Substitutes "tenable" with "justifiable", highlighting the argument's basis in reason or rightness.

valid argument

Replaces "tenable" with "valid", focusing on the logical soundness and correctness of the argument.

plausible argument

Substitutes "tenable" with "plausible", suggesting the argument is believable and likely to be true.

sustainable argument

Replaces "tenable" with "sustainable", indicating the argument can be maintained or defended over time.

reasonable argument

Substitutes "tenable" with "reasonable", implying the argument is fair and sensible.

credible argument

Replaces "tenable" with "credible", emphasizing the argument's trustworthiness and believability.

supportable argument

Substitutes "tenable" with "supportable", meaning the argument has evidence or reasons to back it up.

maintainable argument

Replaces "tenable" with "maintainable", highlighting the argument's ability to be upheld or defended.

arguable point

Rephrases the expression while keeping a similar meaning; it changes the word "argument" with "point", changing a bit the point of view.

FAQs

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

You can use "tenable argument" to describe an argument that is defensible or reasonable. For example, "The lawyer presented a "tenable argument" for his client's innocence based on the available evidence."

What are some alternatives to "tenable argument"?

Alternatives include "defensible argument", "justifiable argument", or "valid argument". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What distinguishes a "tenable argument" from a weak one?

A "tenable argument" is characterized by its strong foundation in evidence and logic, making it defensible against scrutiny. In contrast, a weak argument often lacks sufficient support and is easily refuted.

Is "tenable argument" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "tenable argument" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe an argument that is well-supported and logically sound. Other options may include "plausible argument" or "credible argument".