inductive
Relating to reasoning from specific observations to broader generalizations or theories
Examples
In a meeting
“Through inductive analysis of customer complaints, we identified three common pain points.”
Over coffee
“She used inductive reasoning: since it rained the last three Tuesdays, she expects rain today.”
Why this word
empirical
inductive specifies reasoning from specific observations to general principles, while empirical just means based on observation
inferential
inductive describes bottom-up reasoning from cases to generalizations, while inferential is vaguer about the direction of reasoning
observational
inductive emphasizes deriving general rules from particular instances, while observational just means based on watching
Usage tip
Use to describe bottom-up reasoning from patterns; conclusions are probable but not certain
Etymology
Latin: inductivus, from inducere (to lead in), from in- (into) + ducere (to lead)
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Related words
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole
syllogism
A logical argument with two premises leading to a conclusion
empiricism
The belief that knowledge comes from observation and experience
paradox
A seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true
premise
An underlying assumption on which reasoning is based
dogma
A principle or belief accepted without question