INCOMMENSURABLE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "incommensurable" refers to something that cannot be compared or measured against a common standard. It is commonly used to describe two entities that are so fundamentally different or unrelated that they cannot be accurately compared or equated. Incommensurability often implies a lack of common ground or shared basis for comparison.
In a mathematical context, incommensurable refers to numbers or quantities that have no common measure or factor. For example, the square root of 2 is an irrational number that is considered incommensurable with whole numbers, meaning it cannot be expressed as a fraction or ratio of integers.
In philosophy and epistemology, incommensurability is a concept that was introduced by Thomas Kuhn to describe the fundamental differences between different scientific paradigms or conceptual frameworks. According to Kuhn, when a paradigm shift occurs, the old and new paradigms become incommensurable, making it difficult or impossible to compare their theories, methodologies, or assumptions. This leads to a breakdown in communication and understanding between proponents of different paradigms, making it challenging to assess the relative merits or progress of scientific theories.
Overall, the term "incommensurable" conveys the idea of two entities being so fundamentally distinct, dissimilar, or incompatible that they cannot be adequately compared, evaluated, or understood in relation to each other.
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Having no common measure or standard of comparison, as the side of a square and its diagonal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for INCOMMENSURABLE
- uncommensurable
- jncommensurable
- kncommensurable
- oncommensurable
- 9ncommensurable
- 8ncommensurable
- ibcommensurable
- imcommensurable
- ijcommensurable
- ihcommensurable
- inxommensurable
- invommensurable
- infommensurable
- indommensurable
- incimmensurable
- inckmmensurable
- inclmmensurable
- incpmmensurable
- inc0mmensurable
Etymology of INCOMMENSURABLE
The word "incommensurable" originates from Latin and has the prefix "in-" which signifies negation or negation of something. The Latin root word is "commensurabilis", derived from the verb "commensurare", meaning "to measure together". The suffix "-able" indicates the ability or capacity for something. Therefore, "incommensurable" is a combination of "in-" and "commensurable", indicating something that cannot be measured together or compared in terms of size, quantity, or quality.
Similar spelling words for INCOMMENSURABLE
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