valid argument
noun phraseUK /ˈvæl.ɪd ˈɑː.ɡjə.mənt/
US /ˈvæl.ɪd ˈɑːr.ɡjə.mənt/
A valid argument is a set of ideas where, if the first ideas are true, the last idea must also be true.
Her teacher said her valid argument showed that all cats are animals and all animals need food, so all cats need food.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. An argument that follows the correct rules of logic, even if its starting ideas are not actually true.
The argument was valid because the conclusion followed from the premises, even though one premise was false.
3. A reason or set of reasons that is strong enough to be accepted or taken seriously.
The lawyer presented a valid argument that convinced the jury.
4. A point that is fair and reasonable in a discussion or debate.
She made a valid argument about why the school should start later.