syllogism
A logical argument with two premises leading to a conclusion
Examples
In a meeting
“Her presentation followed a clear syllogism: all competitors raised prices, we're competitive, therefore we should raise prices.”
Over coffee
“He used a simple syllogism: good sleep improves focus, focus improves work, so he prioritizes sleep.”
Why this word
argument
syllogism is a specific three-part deductive logical structure (major premise, minor premise, conclusion), while argument is any reasoning
reasoning
syllogism is the precise form of categorical deductive logic, while reasoning is any thinking process
logic
syllogism is a particular formal structure within logic, while logic is the entire field of valid reasoning
Usage tip
Use when describing step-by-step logical arguments. Particularly effective when analyzing the structure of reasoning.
Etymology
Greek 'syllogismos' meaning 'conclusion, inference'
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Related words
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole
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
ontology
The nature of being or categories of existence