plausible defense
noun phraseUK /ˈplɔː.zə.bəl dɪˈfens/
US /ˈplɑː.zə.bəl dɪˈfens/
A reason that sounds like it could be true.
The boy gave a plausible defense for being late, saying the bus broke down.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In law, a reason given in court that seems believable enough to be considered.
The lawyer presented a plausible defense that the evidence was misunderstood.
3. An answer that sounds fair and sensible even if it might not be fully proven.
Her plausible defense made the teacher think twice before giving a punishment.
4. A way of explaining something that others find easy to accept as possibly true.
He offered a plausible defense for why his homework was missing.