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.

← All 130 LSAT definitions

Last updated October 12, 2026