dialectic
A method of reasoning through opposing arguments to reach truth
Examples
In a meeting
“We used a dialectic approach in the strategy meeting, examining both expansion and consolidation.”
Over coffee
“Their conversation was a real dialectic, with each challenging the other's assumptions.”
Why this word
debate
dialectic is a method of arriving at truth through examining contradictions and synthesis, while debate is competitive argumentation
discussion
dialectic is a philosophical method of reasoning through opposing ideas to reach higher understanding, while discussion is general conversation
dialogue
dialectic specifically involves logical progression through thesis-antithesis-synthesis, while dialogue is simply exchange between parties
Usage tip
Use when describing productive disagreement or thesis-antithesis discussions. Signals sophisticated debate methodology.
Etymology
Greek 'dialektike' meaning 'art of debate'
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole
objection
A reason for disagreeing or opposing something
revisit
To return to and reconsider a topic or decision
syllogism
A logical argument with two premises leading to a conclusion
empiricism
The belief that knowledge comes from observation and experience