valid

adjective

ˈva-ləd How to pronounce valid (audio)
Definition of validnext
1
as in logical
according to the rules of logic your argument isn't valid because you're taking what should be the conclusion and using it as a premise

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in reasonable
based on sound reasoning or information only further investigation will show whether your theory is valid

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced that decals will no longer be valid as of October 1, and no new HOV stickers will be issued after that date. —Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025 According to court documents, Dixon didn’t have valid registration or insurance, and his license was revoked. —Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 11 Sep. 2025 If agents are to act independently, networks must guarantee that their actions remain valid and reversible. —Ron Schmelzer, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025 Having a valid email address where customers can reach you is essential to good customer service. —Christopher Elliott, Mercury News, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for valid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for valid
  1. logical
  2. reasonable
  3. coherent
  4. rational
  5. good
  6. sensible
Adjective
  • That is logical, but Emmys aren’t always logical.
    — Pete Hammond, Deadline, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Sometimes, certain decisions feel easier than others, even when both types of choices (intuitive and logical) seem important.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Definition of logical
Adjective
  • The most successful organizations will be those that leverage AI to eliminate mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on high-value creative and strategic work within reasonable timeframes.
    — Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • The reasonable monthlies, at $822, get you a bike room, in-building laundry, and a storage unit.
    — Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 15 Sep. 2025
Definition of reasonable
Adjective
  • Rather than advocating a one-size-fits-all, outdated approach to leadership, Hinson is helping executives expand their leadership impact by using their own coherent leadership approach, rather than following outdated leadership rules.
    — Serenity Gibbons, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
  • The wisest people can narrate their entire life — mistakes included — as a coherent whole.
    — Big Think, Big Think, 9 Sep. 2025
Definition of coherent
Adjective
  • Even investors who pride themselves on rational decisions know that fear, excitement or uncertainty can often enter the picture.
    — Bruce Helmer, Twin Cities, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Even in situations where logic seems to provide you a clear answer, what seems rational may not always feel right or make sense for you personally.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Definition of rational
Adjective
  • The extra point was good but there was a holding penalty on the Rebels.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Sep. 2025
  • After 10 tumultuous years with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Kadri delivered his best campaign with the Colorado Avalanche in 2021-22, posting 89 points in the regular season and finishing by hoisting the Stanley Cup.
    — Carol Schram, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
Definition of good
Adjective
  • And any sensible apple grower in Ontario knew their cash crop would be the McIntosh.
    — Mark Dent, HubSpot, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Many states take sensible steps—background checks, extreme risk protection orders, and safe storage laws—all policies that help reduce gun crime and gun deaths.
    — Gabby Giffords, Time, 11 Sep. 2025
Definition of sensible

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Cite this Entry

“Valid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/valid. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

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