What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enthymeme
Example
She's a good candidate for the job because she has experience. [enthymeme: missing premise]
Example
All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal. [not an enthymeme, but a syllogism]
syllogism
Example
All dogs are animals. All animals have hearts. Therefore, all dogs have hearts. [syllogism]
Example
He's a good basketball player because he's tall and athletic. [not a syllogism, but an enthymeme]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Syllogism is more commonly used than enthymeme in academic and formal settings, while enthymeme is more commonly used in everyday conversation and persuasive writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between enthymeme and syllogism?
Syllogism is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, while enthymeme is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
