Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Plausibly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤔
Add to dictionary

plausibly

[ˈplɔː.zə.bli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

reasonable argument

Plausibly refers to something that can be considered reasonable or probable. It suggests that an idea, explanation, or argument appears believable and is capable of being accepted as valid or credible. When something is described as plausible, it is often seen as a viable option in discussions or debates. Plausibility can vary based on context, as what is plausible in one scenario may not be in another.

Synonyms

believably, credibly, feasibly, likely, reasonably.

Examples of usage

  • He explained the situation plausibly.
  • The theory was presented plausibly during the debate.
  • She proposed a plausibly successful strategy.
  • Their explanation was not only satisfying but also plausibly accurate.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People often assess information plausibly when they rely on cognitive biases, such as the availability heuristic.
  • Research suggests that if something sounds plausible, people tend to accept it as true, regardless of the evidence.
  • Cognitive dissonance can occur when new ideas are not plausible based on existing beliefs, causing discomfort.

Critical Thinking

  • In debates, being able to argue plausibly helps in presenting ideas that are more likely to be accepted by others.
  • Evaluating the plausibility of a claim is essential in scientific inquiry to determine its validity.
  • Logical fallacies often undermine plausibility; identifying these can strengthen arguments.

Communication

  • Effective speech often requires the speaker to present their ideas plausibly to keep the audience engaged.
  • Storytelling techniques emphasize plausibility to create believable narratives, enhancing the listener's connection.
  • In advertising, brands aim to make their claims sound plausible to gain consumer trust and encourage purchases.

Media and Pop Culture

  • In films, a plot must be plausible for viewers to suspend disbelief and enjoy the story.
  • Documentaries strive to present facts plausibly to ensure credibility and audience trust.
  • The notion of plausibility is often used in satire, where exaggerated claims highlight the absurdity of real-life situations.

Origin of 'plausibly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'plausibilis,' which means 'worthy of applause' or 'worthy of approval.'
  • Its use dates back to the late 14th century, showing how long people have been considering the reasonableness of ideas.
  • The suffix '-ly' is used to turn adjectives into adverbs, indicating how something is done.

The word 'plausibly' originates from the Latin word 'plausibilis', which means 'worthy of applause' or 'pleasing'. This Latin term is a combination of 'plaudere', meaning 'to applaud' or 'to clap', and the suffix '-ibilis', which is equivalent to '-able' in English, suggesting the capability of being clapped for or approved of. In English, the term began to surface in the late 19th century, evolving to describe not just pleasant things but also ideas and assertions that could be accepted as truthful or feasible. The use of 'plausibly' has become prevalent in formal discussions, debates, and academic contexts, marking claims that hold substantial ground or reason, thus emphasizing critical thinking and rational discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,113, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.