CONDITIONAL STATEMENT Meaning and
Definition
-
A conditional statement, also known as an if-then statement, is a logical statement that expresses a relationship between two propositions or statements. It consists of an antecedent (if-clause) and a consequent (then-clause), where the truth value of the consequent is determined by the truth value of the antecedent.
A conditional statement is structured as "if P, then Q." The proposition P is the antecedent or condition, and Q is the consequent or result. The relationship between P and Q is such that when P is true, it implies or guarantees the truth of Q. However, when P is false, it does not necessarily mean that Q is false.
The truth value of a conditional statement depends on the truth values of both the antecedent and the consequent. When both P and Q are true, the conditional statement is true. If P is true and Q is false, the conditional statement is false. Similarly, if P is false, the statement is also true, regardless of the truth value of Q.
Conditional statements are commonly used in everyday language, as well as in various fields such as mathematics, logic, and computer programming. They provide a means to express relationships and implications, enabling logical reasoning and decision making.
Etymology of CONDITIONAL STATEMENT
The word "conditional" comes from the Latin word "conditio" which means "stipulation" or "arrangement".
The word "statement" originated from the Latin word "statio" which means "a standing, position, or posture".
When brought together, a "conditional statement" refers to a specific kind of statement or sentence that contains a condition, specifying that something will happen only if another thing is true or satisfied.
