the argument is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the argument is" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce or clarify a statement or point that is being made in an argument or debate. Example: "The argument is that increasing the minimum wage will lead to job loss for small businesses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The argument is fragile.

The New Yorker

The argument is weak.

The New York Times

The argument is about credit.

The Economist

The argument is forcefully made.

The New Yorker

The argument is highly controversial.

The New York Times

The argument is straightforward enough.

The Economist

The argument is tight enough.

The New Yorker

The argument is over how.

The Economist

However the argument is nuanced.

The Economist

But the argument is weak.

The New York Times

The argument is about policies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the argument is", ensure that the argument is clearly defined and supported by evidence or reasoning. Avoid ambiguity by stating the core of the argument concisely.

Common error

Avoid using "the argument is" to introduce a complex topic with a simplistic summary. Ensure your introduction accurately reflects the nuance and scope of the argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the argument is" serves as an introductory device, signaling the presentation of a central claim or line of reasoning. Ludwig examples show it introducing viewpoints in news articles, academic discussions and philosophical debates.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the argument is" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a central claim or line of reasoning. As Ludwig AI confirmed, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Found frequently in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, this phrase acts as a signal to the reader or listener that a key point is about to be articulated. While semantically similar alternatives exist, such as "the claim is" or "the point is", "the argument is" maintains its own distinct nuance in framing discussions. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and provide robust support for the argument to enhance its persuasiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the contention is

Replaces "argument" with "contention", emphasizing a point of dispute or debate.

the claim is

Substitutes "argument" with "claim", focusing on an assertion that needs to be supported.

the assertion is

Uses "assertion" instead of "argument", highlighting a confident and forceful statement.

the point is

Replaces "argument" with "point", simplifying the phrase to emphasize the main idea.

the thesis is

Employs "thesis" instead of "argument", suggesting a more formal and structured proposition.

the reasoning is

Focuses on the logical process behind the argument, rather than the argument itself.

the justification is

Highlights the reasons or evidence supporting the argument.

the premise is

Emphasizes the foundational assumptions upon which the argument is built.

the idea is

Uses a more general term, "idea", to refer to the central concept being presented.

the long and short of it is

Offers a concise summary of the argument, cutting to the essential point.

FAQs

How can I use "the argument is" in a sentence?

Use "the argument is" to introduce a specific claim or point that you are trying to make. For example, "The argument is that increased investment in renewable energy will reduce our reliance on fossil fuels."

What phrases are similar to "the argument is"?

Alternatives include "the claim is", "the point is", or "the thesis is". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "the argument is" or "the argument was"?

Use "the argument is" when presenting a current argument or a generally accepted viewpoint. Use "the argument was" when referring to an argument that was previously made or has since been refuted.

How can I make my use of "the argument is" more persuasive?

Follow the phrase with a clear and concise statement of the argument. Support the argument with evidence, reasoning, and examples to strengthen your position.