MAJOR PREMISE Meaning and
Definition
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A major premise is a fundamental statement or proposition that serves as the foundation for an argument in logic. It represents one of the three main components of a syllogism, a deductive reasoning tool used to derive logical conclusions.
In a syllogistic structure, the major premise sets the general context or principle upon which the argument is based. It typically consists of a universal assertion or generalization, providing a broad statement that seeks to establish a relationship or connection between categories or groups. The major premise states a widely accepted truth, principle, or principle that is understood or taken for granted. It serves as the starting point for logical reasoning.
For example, in the classic syllogism "All men are mortal. John is a man. Therefore, John is mortal," the major premise is the proposition "All men are mortal." This statement forms the major foundation for the subsequent reasoning. It expresses a general truth or rule about the nature of men, stating that every man is subject to mortality.
In essence, the major premise helps to structure deductive arguments by establishing a widely accepted principle or truth that acts as a basis for drawing logical conclusions. It provides a starting point for reasoning and allows individuals to evaluate the validity of a deductive argument by examining the connection between the major premise, the minor premise, and the conclusion.
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In logic, the premise of a syllogism which contains the major term.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MAJOR PREMISE
- najor premise
- kajor premise
- jajor premise
- mzjor premise
- msjor premise
- mwjor premise
- mqjor premise
- mahor premise
- manor premise
- mamor premise
- makor premise
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- mauor premise
- majir premise
- majkr premise
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- maj9r premise
Etymology of MAJOR PREMISE
The word "major premise" comes from the combination of two terms: "major" and "premise".
The term "major" originated from Latin "major" meaning "greater" or "larger". It was borrowed into English in the late 15th century to refer to something of greater importance, size, or significance.
The word "premise" is derived from the Latin word "praemissa" which means "proposition" or "something stated in advance". It entered English language in the late 14th century.
When used together, "major premise" refers to the first proposition in a syllogism (a logical argument consisting of three parts: major premise, minor premise, and conclusion) that contains the major term, which is the predicate of the conclusion. The major premise serves as the foundation or starting point for the argument.
Similar spelling words for MAJOR PREMISE
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