What is trade-off?
A trade-off is what you give up to get something else.
Policy arguments on the LSAT often weigh a benefit against a cost the argument ignored.
Strengthen the overlooked cost and the argument weakens; show the cost is small and it strengthens.
Always ask what the proposal costs, not just what it buys. The cost is usually where the flaw lives.
Related glossary entry: weaken.
Last updated October 12, 2026