But in a decision made public yesterday, a three-judge appellate panel said the arguments lacked merit.

Unfortunately, although the argument lacks nothing in the way of emotion, substantial facts are in short supply.

The socially liberal argument is pragmatic, but lacks moral force.

This is not to say that the Greeks' argument over Macedonia's name lacks merit.

Overall, his theoretical argument often lacks historical fact, which lends himself more to provocation rather than insight.

"Your arguments are not entirely lacking in virtue, sir," he said at last, with formal courtesy.

His argument that the modest requirements of Labour's electoral system should be changed to suit him lacks definite principle.

This argument, however, lacks support outside of Azerbaijan.

But Wei finds his critics' arguments lacking in substance.

The regime's argument that her detention was 'temporary' and 'protective' lacks all credibility.