ABSURDUM Meaning and
Definition
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Absurdum is a Latin term derived from the word "absurdus," meaning "irrational" or "senseless." It is commonly used in mathematics and logic to refer to a form of reasoning known as "reductio ad absurdum," which is a method of proving a statement or proposition by demonstrating its opposite to be absurd or logically contradictory.
In mathematical proofs, reductio ad absurdum involves assuming a statement to be false and then showing that this assumption leads to a contradiction or an absurd result. By demonstrating that the opposite of the original statement leads to an absurdity, one can conclude that the original statement must be true.
Even though commonly associated with mathematics and logic, the term absurdum is also employed in a wider sense to describe something that is highly illogical, nonsensical, or beyond reason. It describes a situation, idea, or action that lacks rationality, coherence, or practicality, often elicits laughter or disbelief due to its extreme or exaggerated nature. The term is frequently used in literature, theater, and comedy to emphasize the irrational or farcical nature of a situation, highlighting its departure from logical or rational thinking.
To summarize, in its dictionary definition, absurdum refers to a process of reasoning used in mathematics and logic, specifically reductio ad absurdum, to prove a statement by showing its opposite as logically absurd. Additionally, it describes something that is highly irrational, nonsensical, or beyond reason, often evoking amusement or disbelief.
Etymology of ABSURDUM
The word "absurdum" is derived from Latin and its etymology can be traced back to the ancient Greek language. In Greek philosophy, there was a logical argumentative method called "reductio ad absurdum", which means "reduction to absurdity". This technique involved assuming the opposite of what is to be proven and then showing that it leads to an absurd or contradictory conclusion.
In Latin, "reductio ad absurdum" was translated as "reduction to the absurd", and the phrase itself is derived from the Latin words "reductio" meaning "reduction" and "absurdum" meaning "absurd" or "contradictory". Over time, "absurdum" came to be used independently as a noun to refer to something irrational, illogical, or nonsensical.
Similar spelling words for ABSURDUM
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