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 Savings are only valid on Economy Class bookings. Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026 Offer valid from April 20, 2026 to May 4, 2026. Gili Malinsky, CNBC, 28 Apr. 2026 But the panel's majority opinion said the administration is likely to succeed in showing that the policy's escort requirement is legally valid. ABC News, 27 Apr. 2026 That was/is a valid concern, and they were first raised during the draft by former Dolphins head coach Nick Saban, who recruited and coached Proctor in his final season at Alabama. Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for valid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for valid
Adjective
  • Berman and Kessler argue this is a logical and organic pivot for MMRs.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 28 Apr. 2026
  • However, a resignation or even a leave of absence now looks like a logical outcome.
    Bobby Burack OutKick, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • With a reasonable chance that both sides win all their remaining games, the size of each victory matters.
    Mark Carey, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Although executors may be paid reasonable compensation—often up to 5% of the estate’s value—you aren’t required to accept the role.
    Nancy Ashburn, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • But security experts say the name may be a flag of convenience rather than a coherent group, and its claims should be treated with caution.
    Jill Lawless, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Within mathematics, a better marketing campaign would probably look like a coherent theory, the kind Nelson sought — a set of formal rules, like those underlying modern math, that excludes infinity but is powerful enough to do useful mathematics.
    Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 29 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
  • Some of it is the sensible human desire to spend retirement somewhere a snow shovel is not considered essential equipment.
    Larry Clifton, Sun Sentinel, 28 Apr. 2026
  • These were sensible design choices for that era.
    Bob Diamond, Fortune, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Valid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/valid. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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