premise
An underlying assumption on which reasoning is based
Examples
In a meeting
“The entire business case rests on the premise that remote work increases productivity.”
Over coffee
“My vacation planning starts with the premise that I need complete disconnection from work.”
Why this word
assumption
Premise specifically refers to a stated proposition in an argument, while assumption may be unstated or unconscious
basis
Basis is vaguer and could refer to any foundation; premise is the specific logical starting point of reasoning
proposition
Proposition is any statement offered; premise is specifically one that supports a conclusion
Usage tip
Use to identify foundational assumptions. Particularly useful when challenging or establishing starting points for arguments.
Etymology
Latin 'praemissa' meaning 'things mentioned before'
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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
dogma
A principle or belief accepted without question
ontology
The nature of being or categories of existence