The spelling of the word "analogical" is derived from the base word "analog" and the suffix "-ical". The IPA phonetic transcription for "analog" is /əˈnæl.ɒɡ/, meaning a comparison between two things that have similar features. The suffix "-ical" indicates that the word is related to, or concerned with, the base word. Therefore, "analogical" refers to something that is related to or characterized by analogy. The word is pronounced as /ˌæ.nəˈlɒ.dʒɪ.kəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription.
The term "analogical" refers to something that relates to or embodies analogies. It is commonly used to describe a method of reasoning or understanding by means of comparing similarities or correspondences between different concepts or situations. Analogical thinking involves recognizing similarities or shared characteristics between two or more things and using this comparison as a basis for drawing an inference or making a prediction.
In a broader sense, "analogical" can also pertain to systems or processes that operate using analogies or analog representations. Analogical devices or systems, often contrasted with digital ones, work by using continuous physical variables to represent information or data, in contrast to discrete digital signals. For instance, analogical computers process information in a continuous manner by utilizing voltages or currents that vary smoothly over a range of values.
The term "analogical" can additionally be used to describe the nature of a relationship or association that is analogous or similar in some specific way. It signifies a resemblance or similarity between two different entities, often used in comparative or metaphorical contexts. This can manifest in various fields like language, literature, art, or even scientific research, where analogical connections and comparisons serve to enhance understanding or interpretation.
Used by way of analogy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word analogical is derived from the noun analogy + the suffix -ical.
The noun analogy comes from the Latin word analogia, which means proportion or likeness. This Latin word, in turn, is derived from the Greek term analogia, combining ana (meaning according to or upon) and logos (meaning word or reason).
The suffix -ical is a common suffix in English that is used to form adjectives, and it is derived from the Latin suffix -icus, which signifies pertaining to or having the nature of. So, when the suffix -ical is added to analogy, we get analogical, which means pertaining to analogies or involving analogies.