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syllogism

[ˈsɪlədʒɪzəm]

syllogism Definition

an instance of a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn from two given or assumed propositions (premises); a common or middle term is present in the two premises but not in the conclusion, which may be invalid (e.g. all dogs are animals; all animals have four legs; therefore all dogs have four legs).

Using syllogism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "syllogism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    All men are mortal; Socrates is a man; therefore Socrates is mortal.

  • Example

    All birds have wings; penguins are birds; therefore penguins have wings.

  • Example

    All cats are animals; all animals have hearts; therefore all cats have hearts.

syllogism Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for syllogism

Phrases with syllogism

  • a syllogism in which both premises and the conclusion are simple categorial statements that begin with one of the words 'all', 'no', or 'some'

    Example

    All dogs are mammals; all mammals have lungs; therefore all dogs have lungs.

  • a syllogism in which one of the premises is a hypothetical proposition

    Example

    If it rains, the ground will get wet; it is raining; therefore the ground is getting wet.

  • a syllogism in which one premise is a disjunction ('either A or B') and the other premise denies one of the disjuncts

    Example

    Either John is at home or he is at work; John is not at home; therefore John is at work.

Origins of syllogism

from Greek 'syllogismos', meaning 'conclusion, inference'

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Summary: syllogism in Brief

A 'syllogism' [ˈsɪlədʒɪzəm] is a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn from two given or assumed premises. The conclusion is based on a common or middle term present in the two premises but not in the conclusion, which may be invalid. Examples include 'All men are mortal; Socrates is a man; therefore Socrates is mortal.' and 'All birds have wings; penguins are birds; therefore penguins have wings.'