Logical Terminology

20 Logical Terminology Words with Meanings and Examples

1. Argument: A set of statements intended to persuade someone of something.

• Example: The lawyer presented a strong argument in favor of the defendant.

2. Premise: A statement that serves as a foundation for an argument.

• Example: The premise of the argument is that all humans are equal.

3. Conclusion: The main point or claim that an argument is trying to prove.

• Example: The conclusion of the essay was that climate change is a serious threat.

4. Evidence: Facts or information used to support a claim.

• Example: The scientist cited evidence from multiple studies to support their theory.

5. Reasoning: The process of drawing conclusions from evidence.

• Example: The detective used deductive reasoning to solve the case.

6. Inference: A conclusion drawn from evidence or reasoning.

• Example: The inference is that the suspect was at the crime scene.

7. Deduction: A type of reasoning that starts with general principles and draws specific conclusions.

• Example: Deductive reasoning is used in mathematical proofs.

8. Induction: A type of reasoning that starts with specific observations and draws general conclusions.

• Example: Inductive reasoning is used in scientific research.

9. Syllogism: A type of logical argument consisting of a major premise, a minor premise, and a conclusion.

• Example: All humans are mortal. Socrates is a human. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.

10. Fallacy: A flaw in reasoning that undermines an argument.

• Example: The ad hominem fallacy is a common logical fallacy.

11. Premises: The statements that provide the foundation for an argument.

• Example: The argument has two premises: all humans are mortal and Socrates is a human.

12. Assumptions: Beliefs or ideas that are taken for granted.

• Example: The argument made an assumption that everyone has access to quality education.

13. Bias: A systematic error in judgment or measurement.

• Example: The journalist’s bias towards the political party influenced their reporting.

14. Stereotype: A generalized belief about a group of people.

• Example: The stereotype that all lawyers are greedy is inaccurate.

15. Fallacy: A flaw in reasoning that undermines an argument.

• Example: The ad hominem fallacy is a common logical fallacy.

16. Evaluation: The process of judging the quality or worth of something.

• Example: The professor evaluated the students’ essays based on their clarity and organization.

17. Analysis: The detailed examination of something to understand its nature.

• Example: The student conducted a thorough analysis of the poem.

18. Synthesis: The combining of ideas or elements to form a new whole.

• Example: The essay synthesized different theories to explain the phenomenon.

19. Perspective: A particular viewpoint or way of thinking.

• Example: The article presented different perspectives on the issue of immigration.

20. Context: The circumstances in which something happens.

• Example: It is important to consider the historical context when interpreting the text.