unsupported assumptions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unsupported assumptions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing claims, arguments, or theories that are based on premises that lack evidence or validation. Example: "The author's conclusions are flawed due to the presence of unsupported assumptions throughout the research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Smokers heaped on the counterarguments: "many smokers live a long time" (true, but ignores the statistical evidence), "lots of things are hazardous" (a red herring), "smoking is better than being a nervous wreck," and so forth, piling red herrings on top of unsupported assumptions.

The New Yorker

In so doing, this chapter carefully traces the logical lapses and unsupported assumptions that facilitated the scalar shifts from empirical data collection, rangeland assessment, and rangeland regulation.

Pastoralism

This study was performed to evaluate randomized cancer trials resulting negative regarding inadequate accrual, unsupported assumptions of equivalence and factors implied in such assumptions.

Controlled Clinical Trials

Of these three cases, Henderson's assertions in particular make several unsupported assumptions and conflict with the known modern and fossil diversity of flying birds.

Plosone

Our study attempts to apply scientific rigor to a clinical (i.e. applied) question without making unsupported assumptions.

BMC Anesthesiology

Sensitivity Analysis is defined as " a method to determine the robustness of an assessment by examining the extent to which results are affected by changes in methods, models, values of unmeasured variables or assumptions" with the aim of identifying "results that are most dependent on questionable or unsupported assumptions" [ 45].

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Its argument is based on the unsupported assumption that intensive farm management and mass production of meat are essential for human well-being.

The Economist

Our findings replicate Curtis' findings and challenge the still common but unsupported assumption that HPA axis activity reflects subjective distress.

Psychoneuroendocrinology

One study used a semi-quantitative competitive real-time PCR method to evaluate the extent of RNA degradation in bloodstains over time and made the as-yet unsupported assumption with their assay design that degradation to mRNA occurs in the ex vivo dried state in a similar manner to that in the in vivo state, namely from the 5'end [26].

Plosone

Despite this evidence, proposed reforms in the UK still favour the private and voluntary sector model on the (unsupported) assumption that it is more effective.

BMC Public Health

In fact, it is an unsupported assumption that disorders of the neonatal fundus, particularly retinal haemorrhages due to birth trauma, are at best very rare and at worst transient and benign.

British Journal of Ophthalmology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing an argument, specifically identify the "unsupported assumptions" to demonstrate a thorough understanding of its weaknesses.

Common error

Avoid claiming that all assumptions are "unsupported" when only some lack evidence. Qualify your statement to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unsupported assumptions" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb (e.g., identify, challenge, rely on) or as a subject complement. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unsupported assumptions" is grammatically sound and functions to identify claims lacking evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not overly frequent, the phrase appears across academic, news, and general contexts, indicating broad applicability. When using this phrase, be specific in identifying which assumptions are unsupported and avoid generalizations. Alternatives include "baseless claims" or "unsubstantiated assertions". By understanding the nuances of "unsupported assumptions", writers can enhance the clarity and credibility of their arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsubstantiated assertions

Emphasizes the absence of proof or verification for a statement.

baseless claims

Focuses on the lack of factual basis for an assertion.

unconfirmed beliefs

Focuses on the absence of verification for a personal conviction.

unproven hypotheses

Highlights the lack of experimental or empirical validation for a scientific conjecture.

unvalidated theories

Emphasizes the lack of testing or confirmation for a proposed explanation.

groundless suppositions

Stresses the lack of logical or rational foundation for a belief.

questionable presumptions

Highlights the doubtfulness or uncertainty surrounding an assumption.

tenuous premises

Indicates that the foundation or starting point of an argument is weak or shaky.

dubious contentions

Suggests that an argument or claim is likely to be false or unreliable.

indefensible propositions

Highlights the inability to justify or support a statement with evidence.

FAQs

How can I identify "unsupported assumptions" in an argument?

Look for statements presented as facts without evidence or logical reasoning. Question whether the author provides sufficient justification for their claims, and consider alternative explanations or perspectives that contradict those "unsupported assumptions".

What is the difference between "unsupported assumptions" and "false assumptions"?

"Unsupported assumptions" lack evidence, while "false assumptions" have been proven incorrect. An unsupported assumption may be true, but there's no basis to believe it.

When is it appropriate to use the term "unsupported assumptions" in writing?

Use "unsupported assumptions" when you are analyzing an argument, theory, or proposal and want to point out that some of its underlying beliefs lack a solid foundation. This is common in academic, professional, and analytical contexts.

What are some alternatives to "unsupported assumptions"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "baseless claims", "unsubstantiated assertions", or "unproven hypotheses". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.