holds water
Withstands logical scrutiny
To hold water is to be logically sound or able to withstand scrutiny.
An argument, theory, or excuse either holds water or doesn't: Her alibi doesn't hold water.
The metaphor comes from containers—if a vessel leaks, it fails its purpose.
Similarly, a flawed argument fails to contain its logic.
- makes senseIs coherent and logical
- stands to reasonIs logically sound
- checks outConfirms or departs
- passes musterMeets minimum requirements
- adds upSums or coheres
reasoning · justification · credibility · cistern · consistency · proof · reservoir · rain barrel · watertight · argument · plausibility · coherence · rationality · evidence · container · impermeable · vessel · retention
logical validity/soundness
holds waterfalls apart
Breaks into components
full of holes · falls flat · flawed · unsound · specious
hold, holds, held, holding, holdings, holder, holders, holdout, holdover