論拠

• Reading: ろんきょ
• Romaji: ronkyo
• Kanji breakdown: 論 (ron) — argument, theory; 拠 (kyo) — basis, grounds
• Pronunciation: /ɾoɴ.kjo/

Meaning

Grounds of an argument; basis for reasoning. The evidence or rationale that supports a claim.

A noun used in logical discourse, debate, and academic writing to refer to the foundation upon which an argument rests. Common patterns include 論拠を示す (to present grounds), 論拠が弱い (the basis is weak), and 論拠に欠ける (to lack grounds). More formal than 理由 (reason), emphasising logical structure rather than simple cause.

Examples

1. その主張には十分な論拠が示されていない。 That claim has not been supported by sufficient grounds.
2. 科学的な論拠に基づいて政策を決めるべきだ。 Policy should be decided based on scientific grounds.
3. 論拠が弱いと相手を説得するのは難しい。 When the basis is weak, it's hard to persuade the other party.

Usage Guide

Context: academic writing, debate, law, journalism

Tone: intellectual

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 論 (ron, argument/theory) + 拠 (kyo, basis/grounds). Literally 'argument basis,' a term rooted in classical Chinese rhetorical tradition that became standard in modern Japanese academic and legal discourse.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal