Logic

Definition

The science that studies the formal processes used in thinking and reasoning.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɑːdʒɪk/
• Respelling: LAH-jik (with "LAH" as in "father" and "jik" as in "sick")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɒdʒɪk/
• Respelling: LOD-jik (with "LOD" as in "pot" and "jik" as in "sick")

In both dialects, "logic" places the primary stress on the first syllable. The American pronunciation has a longer "ah" sound in the first syllable, while the British pronunciation has a shorter "o" sound.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French "logique," and further from the Latin "logica," which originates from the Greek word "logikē," meaning "reasoned," which is itself derived from "logos," signifying "word, thought, idea, argument, account, reason, or principle."

Derivatives

• Logical
• Logician
• Logically
• Logicism
• Illogical

Synonyms

• Reasoning
• Rationale
• Sense

Antonyms

• Illogic
• Irrationality
• Unreason

Usage

Logic is fundamental in various disciplines for structuring sound arguments, solving problems, and conducting systematic analysis. It is essential in fields such as mathematics, computer science, philosophy, and everyday decision-making.

Related Terms

• Deduction: The process of reasoning from one or more statements to reach a logically certain conclusion.
• Induction: The process of reasoning that involves moving from a set of specific facts to a general conclusion.
• Proposition: A statement that expresses a judgment or opinion that can be either true or false.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Logic (Noun): The systematic study of the principles of valid inference and correct reasoning.
  • Example: "Studying logic helps improve critical thinking skills."

• Logic (Noun): A particular system or codification of the principles of proof and inference.
  • Example: "Aristotelian logic has been influential in the development of Western philosophy."

• Logic (Noun): The quality of being justifiable by reason.
  • Example: "There is a certain logic to his argument that is hard to dispute."