Validity: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when discussing the quality of being logically or factually sound, especially in research, arguments, or procedures.

• The validity of the experiment's results was questioned.
• You need to check the validity of this document.

Applicable in contexts where the focus is on conformity to laws, rules, or accepted standards, often in legal, political or social discussions.

• The legitimacy of the new government is being disputed.
• He questioned the legitimacy of her claim.

Use when emphasizing the thoroughness, logic, and robustness of something, typically ideas, arguments, or structures.

• The soundness of his financial plan impressed the investors.
• We need to ensure the soundness of the building's foundation.

Best used when referring to the consistency and dependability of a person, system, or process over time.

• The reliability of this data is crucial for our analysis.
• You can count on her reliability; she never misses a deadline.

This word is often used in legal or formal contexts to denote whether something is legally recognized, acceptable, or logical.

• The validity of the contract is under scrutiny.
• Her argument lacks validity and needs more evidence.

Accuracy is used when discussing the correctness or precision of information, measurements, or data. It's commonly used in scientific, technical, and academic contexts.

• The accuracy of the weather forecast was impressive.
• He was known for his accuracy in shooting.

Reliability is used to discuss the dependability or consistency of something or someone. It's common in contexts where trustworthiness or stability is essential, such as products, services, or people.

• The reliability of his car has made it very popular.
• Her reliability as an employee is highly valued.

Authenticity refers to whether something is genuine or true, often used when talking about documents, art, or personal expressions.

• The authenticity of the painting was confirmed by experts.
• He speaks with great authenticity and passion.

See the context and examples for 'validity' above.

Use 'truthfulness' to refer to the quality or state of being accurate and honest.

• Her truthfulness was never in doubt.
• The witness's truthfulness was crucial to the case.

Employ 'justifiability' when discussing whether something can be defended or justified logically or ethically.

• The justifiability of the action was debated for hours.
• He questioned the justifiability of their decision.

Use 'validness' to refer to the state of being true or legitimate, often interchangeably with 'validity'. However, 'validity' is more commonly used.

• The validness of the document was confirmed by the notary.
• There was no doubt about the validness of his argument.