useful argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "useful argument" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an argument that is grounded on facts, logical, and well-reasoned. For example, "The lawyer presented a useful argument in favor of her client's innocence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

This is, of course, a useful argument from a chief executive whose company is all about making powerful chips for wireless devices.

The New York Times

This is a useful argument for Republicans, nicely encapsulated in what Henry Blodget described as "the chart that will get Obama fired".

The Economist

Sony's motivation is not just philanthropic: for some young gamers, the fact that their machine will do serious science in its spare time is a useful argument to convince reluctant parents.

The Economist

The concept of ecosystem services, however, may provide a useful argument to promote the conservation of existing urban green spaces and to communicate the benefits that urban nature provides for citizens to all levels of green space governance.

Land Use Policy

This means -- and religious people might find this a useful argument -- that there was only one creation, one single event when life was born".

Huffington Post

Brower and Chalk's book is a powerful and useful argument for the urgent need to integrate and streamline public health and national security strategies.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

They present useful arguments for the ethical treatment of non-human animals.

SEP

Therefore, further research along these lines can be recommended in order to provide useful arguments for future standard-setting projects addressing the management report/MD&A.

Business Research

Elmy recommended she contact Charlotte Carmichael Stopes for additional useful arguments.

Wikipedia

There is something fundamentally right and useful about the argument that American culture promotes independence at the expense, often, of the more nurturing virtues, but something sad and scared about the idea that the safest solution to this is early marriage.

The New York Times - Magazine

It has been argued that photography in the last century had as much to do with printer's ink as with light-sensitive silver, which makes this assessment of the century's greatest photography books an indispensable reference as well as a useful stimulant for argument.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "useful argument", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates how the argument provides a tangible benefit or aids in achieving a specific goal. Be specific about the utility of the argument in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "useful argument" when the argument's benefits are minimal or unclear. Ensure that the argument's value is substantial and directly contributes to the discussion or outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "useful argument" functions as a noun phrase where "useful" modifies "argument". It describes an argument that is helpful, effective, or beneficial. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "useful argument" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes an argument providing a tangible benefit or aiding in achieving a specific goal. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. The phrase is most commonly found in science and news media contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. Remember to use "useful argument" when the argument's value is clear and substantial, and consider alternatives like "helpful rationale" or "practical reasoning" to add nuance to your writing. By focusing on the specific benefits of the argument, you can strengthen your communication and enhance its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

helpful rationale

This phrase uses "rationale" to emphasize the logical basis, and "helpful" as a synonym for "useful".

practical reasoning

This alternative highlights the real-world applicability of the argument, focusing on its practicality.

effective line of reasoning

This emphasizes the success of the argument in achieving its purpose.

productive debate

This phrase stresses the constructive nature of the argument.

valuable justification

This highlights the worth of the argument in supporting a claim.

cogent case

This suggests that the argument is clear, logical, and convincing.

advantageous contention

This emphasizes the benefit derived from presenting the argument.

fruitful discussion

This stresses the positive outcomes of engaging in the argument.

serviceable claim

This emphasizes that the argument is functional and fulfills a purpose.

instrumental reasoning

This emphasizes that the argument is a tool for achieving a goal.

FAQs

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

You can use "useful argument" to describe a point or reasoning that is helpful or effective in a particular situation. For instance, "The concept of ecosystem services may provide a "useful argument" to promote the conservation of existing urban green spaces."

What are some alternatives to saying "useful argument"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "helpful rationale", "practical reasoning", or "effective line of reasoning". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the argument's benefit.

When is it appropriate to describe an argument as "useful"?

An argument can be described as "useful" when it demonstrably contributes to solving a problem, persuading an audience, or advancing a discussion in a meaningful way. It should provide a clear benefit in its specific context.

What distinguishes a "useful argument" from a merely 'valid' or 'logical' argument?

While validity and logic relate to the structural soundness of an argument, "useful argument" highlights its practical value and impact. A valid argument may not be useful if it doesn't achieve a desired outcome or address a relevant issue, whereas a "useful argument" provides tangible assistance or advancement.