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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
we defend that
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "we defend that" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to express support for a particular argument or position, but it lacks clarity and proper usage. Example: "In our research, we defend that our approach is the most effective method for solving this issue."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
5 human-written examples
We defend that truth at home and abroad, and we know that Americans will always be found on the side of liberty and equality.
News & Media
"We defend that trademark vigorously, which is a very time-consuming and expensive thing," said E. Malcolm Gosling Jr., whose family has owned Gosling's since its founding in Bermuda in 1806.
News & Media
Moreover, we defend that the increase in patenting is not just due to the fact that VCs give money so that firms can patent pre-VC inventions, but also to the fact that VCs fund the development of inventions.
Science
We defend that one important but largely unexploited application of models is to allow engineers to reason at a higher level of abstraction than that provided by programming languages and implementation technologies.
We defend that Goal-Driven Requirements Engineering (GDRE) is acknowledging benchmark to choose for goals that are common as well as adaptable affirmations of users' mandates, which could be improved and moderated for risks.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
I think we could defend that".
News & Media
We will defend that amendment," Abbott's office said in a statement.
News & Media
"If we have to defend that ship today, we will [use the laser] to destroy a threat that comes," he said.
News & Media
"We gave away a cheap free-kick and then we didn't defend that situation well at all and have come away losing a game we should've got something out of.
News & Media
Hereford manager Martin Foyle told BBC Hereford and Worcester: "I thought we looked quite comfortable at times today but in the first half we had to defend that long throw.
News & Media
On this track, we definitely can defend that".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When aiming to express support for an idea or principle, replace the phrase "we defend that" with more grammatically sound alternatives such as "we argue that" or "we maintain that".
Common error
Avoid using "defend" in contexts where you are expressing an opinion or belief. "Defend" typically implies protecting something from attack, so using it in a purely argumentative context can sound awkward. Instead, opt for verbs like "argue", "assert", or "maintain".
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "we defend that" functions as a declarative statement intended to express support for a specific idea or position. However, as highlighted by Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically questionable in standard English.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
50%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the phrase "we defend that" aims to express support or advocacy, Ludwig AI flags it as grammatically questionable in standard English. Its usage is relatively rare and appears across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific publications. For clearer and more impactful writing, it's best to substitute "we defend that" with alternatives such as "we argue that", "we assert that", or "we maintain that". Prioritize accurate grammar and style to effectively communicate your intended meaning and credibility.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
we argue that
Replaces "defend" with a more common and grammatically sound verb indicating the presentation of reasons for or against something.
we assert that
Emphasizes a confident and forceful statement of belief or fact.
we maintain that
Suggests a continued and firm holding of an opinion or position.
we contend that
Implies a more vigorous and possibly debated assertion.
we advocate that
Shifts the focus to active support and promotion of a cause or idea.
we support that
Expresses a general agreement with or approval of something.
we uphold that
Focuses on maintaining or defending a principle, law, or decision.
we justify that
Implies providing reasons or evidence to show something to be right or reasonable.
we validate that
Focuses on confirming the truth or accuracy of something.
we stand by that
Conveys unwavering support and commitment to a previous statement or action.
FAQs
What is a better alternative to the phrase "we defend that"?
Consider using stronger and more accurate alternatives such as "we argue that", "we assert that", or "we maintain that". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey. For example, you might "we argue that" in an academic paper.
Is "we defend that" grammatically correct?
While understandable, the phrase "we defend that" isn't considered standard English. The verb "defend" usually takes a direct object (something being defended) rather than a "that" clause. It's generally better to rephrase using alternatives like "we argue that" or "we maintain that".
How can I use "defend" correctly in a sentence?
Use "defend" with a direct object, such as "we defend our position" or "we defend our rights". To express supporting a claim, use verbs such as "argue", "assert", "contend", or "maintain" followed by "that". For example: "we defend our position" and ""we argue that" the current policy is flawed".
When is it appropriate to use the word "defend"?
The word "defend" is best used when referring to protecting something from attack or criticism. It's appropriate when discussing defending a physical space, an idea under attack, or a legal case. Using it in other contexts might sound unnatural. Always consider if alternatives like "support", "argue", or "advocate" might be more fitting.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested