How Do You Spell DEDUCTIVE ARGUMENT?

Pronunciation: [dɪdˈʌktɪv ˈɑːɡjuːmənt] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "deductive argument" is dɪˈdʌktɪv ˈɑːɡjʊmənt. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the stressed syllable with the "u" sound. The word then ends with the short "i" sound and the "tive" suffix. The second word, "argument," is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable and the "a" sound as in "father." A deductive argument is a logical process where a conclusion is reached based on premises that are known or assumed to be true.

DEDUCTIVE ARGUMENT Meaning and Definition

1. A deductive argument is a logical reasoning process wherein the conclusion is derived from a set of premises, following a predetermined structure known as the deductive method. It aims to prove beyond doubt that the conclusion is true if the premises are true. In this type of argument, the conclusion is seen as a necessary consequence of the premises, denying the possibility of any other outcome.

   The deductive argument typically consists of two elements: the premises and the conclusion. The premises are statements that are assumed to be true and serve as the foundation for the argument. These premises are generally obtained from observations, experiences, or accepted beliefs. The conclusion, on the other hand, is the statement that logically follows from the premises.

   A fundamental characteristic of deductive reasoning is its validity, meaning that if the premises are true, the conclusion must necessarily be true. Thus, if the argument is valid and the premises are true, the conclusion cannot be false.

   Deductive arguments are often expressed in syllogistic form, which consists of two premises and a conclusion. For example: "All humans are mortal. Socrates is human. Therefore, Socrates is mortal." Here, the conclusion follows logically from the premises, making it a valid deductive argument.

   In summary, a deductive argument employs logic to establish the truthfulness of its conclusion based on the truthfulness of the premises. Through the use of valid reasoning, a clear relationship between premises and conclusion is established, aiming to provide strong evidence for the conclusion's veracity.

Etymology of DEDUCTIVE ARGUMENT

The word "deductive" comes from the Latin word "deductivus", which is derived from the verb "deducere". "Deducere" is a compound of "de-" meaning "from" and "ducere" meaning "to lead". Therefore, "deducere" can be translated as "to lead or bring forth from". In logic, a "deductive argument" is an argument that derives a conclusion from known premises or propositions, leading to a logical inference. The term "deductive" highlights the process of leading or drawing conclusions from given information.