Definition of validnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word valid different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of valid are cogent, convincing, sound, and telling. While all these words mean "having such force as to compel serious attention and usually acceptance," valid implies being supported by objective truth or generally accepted authority.

a valid reason for being absent
a valid marriage

When might cogent be a better fit than valid?

While in some cases nearly identical to valid, cogent may stress either weight of sound argument and evidence or lucidity of presentation.

the prosecutor's cogent summation won over the jury

When is convincing a more appropriate choice than valid?

Although the words convincing and valid have much in common, convincing suggests a power to overcome doubt, opposition, or reluctance to accept.

a convincing argument for welfare reform

In what contexts can sound take the place of valid?

While the synonyms sound and valid are close in meaning, sound implies a basis of flawless reasoning or of solid grounds.

a sound proposal for reviving the economy

Where would telling be a reasonable alternative to valid?

The words telling and valid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, telling stresses an immediate and crucial effect striking at the heart of a matter.

a telling example of bureaucratic waste

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of valid Offer valid April 20, 2026 through May 4, 2026. Cnbc Make It Staff, CNBC, 20 Apr. 2026 The United States should be able to conduct thorough reviews, listen to public input, and uphold valid environmental standards without turning every major infrastructure project into a lengthy, bureaucratic process. Dan Romito, The Washington Examiner, 19 Apr. 2026 The remaining funds will be distributed evenly among customers who submit valid claims. Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026 The actual amount will depend on the number of valid claims. Bay Area News Group, Mercury News, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for valid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for valid
Adjective
  • The logical stop would be Torrey Pines in San Diego, which checks the West Coast and great weather boxes, but the venue is also looking for a new sponsor, as its deal with Farmers Insurance ended in 2026.
    Mark Harris, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Delane gains steam LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane, who visited the Dolphins last week and has repeatedly been linked to Miami at 11, would be a logical pick.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 20 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The union also wants to ensure that workers have a reasonable amount of overtime, mandatory overtime and on-call hours, Beck said.
    Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Its reasonable prices combined with the speedy, mobile-friendly claims process make this brand an excellent option for many travelers.
    Liz Knueven,Ryley Amond, CNBC, 11 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • In this ultra-cold, coherent state, the atoms are expected to undergo radioactive decay in sync rather than randomly.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 20 Apr. 2026
  • Some security experts say Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia is likely a flag of convenience rather than a coherent group, and its claims should be treated with caution.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • None are credible challengers; Matt Conroy is the more reasoned and moderate of the three.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026
  • This is a time for cool, calm and reasoned debate, and for legislators to think through the consequences of legislation put forth.
    Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Knowledge is not understood as the product of an objective and rational analysis of reality, but as the result of an intersubjective negotiation process.
    Florian Wintterlin, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Apr. 2026
  • No rational argument could convince them otherwise.
    Nataliya Gumenyuk, The Dial, 21 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Here are The Denver Post’s 20 best fits remaining for the Broncos through rounds four, five, six, seven and beyond, if Denver indeed wants to have a good day Saturday.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Just being able to be available every single day and also just bring energy and be a good clubhouse guy.
    Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 25 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Beets and garlic have similar care requirements, so keeping them together in the garden is not only easy but sensible.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Apr. 2026
  • So using his two top 10 picks on a defensive standout and an offensive lineman feels like a sensible approach.
    Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 21 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Valid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/valid. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

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