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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

Examples of valid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Registration costs $5 per drone and is valid for three years. Nushrat Rahman, Detroit Free Press, 5 Sep. 2024 Over the years, the courts have upheld Tapp's confession as valid and admissible — and not the product of coercive police conduct. CBS News, 4 Sep. 2024 The promotional pass earned will be valid for use between January 6, 2025, and March 6, 2025. Marnie Hunter, CNN, 4 Sep. 2024 These are all valid and important questions, but some wonder how much policy will actually matter, considering this is a race involving Trump, who is such a polarizing figure. Domenico Montanaro, NPR, 3 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for valid 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'valid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near valid

Cite this Entry

“Valid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/valid. Accessed 20 Sep. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on valid

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