poorly constructed argument

[/ˈpɔːrli kənˈstrʌktɪd ˈɑːrɡjumənt/]
nounpl: poorly constructed arguments
argumento mal construído
1. A logical reasoning or point that lacks coherence, has flawed premises, or fails to support its conclusion effectively
His essay contained several poorly constructed arguments that were easily refuted by the professor.
Seu ensaio continha vários argumentos mal construídos que foram facilmente refutados pelo professor.
2. A rhetorical position that is inadequately developed, unclear, or relies on logical fallacies
The poorly constructed argument in the debate failed to convince the audience.
O argumento mal construído no debate não conseguiu convencer o público.
In academic and professional contexts in both the USA and Brazil, identifying poorly constructed arguments is essential for critical thinking. In American educational settings, this is often emphasized in composition and debate courses. In Brazil, rhetorical analysis and argumentation are important in law, journalism, and higher education. The phrase reflects the value both cultures place on logical reasoning and effective communication.
NYC Slang
that argument doesn't hold water / your argument is whack
Synonyms / Sinônimos
weak argumentflawed reasoningfallacious argumentunsound logicincoherent reasoning
Antonyms / Antônimos
well-constructed argumentsound reasoninglogical argumentcoherent argumentcompelling argument

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
argumento mal construído
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
argumento fraco
More colloquial, emphasizing weakness of argument
São Paulo
raciocínio deficiente
More formal, academic usage
Portugal
argumento mal estruturado
Preferred term in European Portuguese

Related Words

logical fallacypremiseconclusioncoherencerhetoricreasoning

Related Idioms & Phrases

to shoot down an argument
to poke holes in an argument
an argument that falls apart
a house of cards argument
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