Premise

Definition

Premise refers to a proposition upon which an argument is based or from which a conclusion is drawn.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛmɪs/
• Respelling: PREM-is (with "PREM" as in "premier," and "is" as in "is")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛmɪs/
• Respelling: PREM-is (similar to American English, with "PREM" as in "premier," and "is" as in "is")

In both dialects, "premise" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, "PREM." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "PREM" part.

Etymology

The term "premise" is derived from the Latin word "praemissa," meaning "put before," which is the past participle of "praemittere" - "to send ahead."

Derivatives

• Premised
• Premising
• Unpremised
• Premiser
• Repremise

Synonyms

• Assumption
• Postulate
• Proposition

Antonyms

• Conclusion
• Result
• Deduction

Usage

"Premise" is predominantly used in logical, philosophical, and argumentative contexts to denote an initial statement or idea that forms the foundation for subsequent reasoning. It's essential for establishing the framework of an argument or narrative.

Related Terms

• Hypothesis
• Theory
• Assertion
• Ground
• Base

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A proposition offered as a basis for reasoning, without any assumption of its truth.
• Example: "The premise of his argument was flawed, leading to an incorrect conclusion."

• A statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn.
• Example: "The story works on the simple premise that good triumphs over evil."

• The subject or starting point of some consideration or action; an underlying theme or idea.
• Example: "The central premise of the documentary was that people can change."

• (In real estate) A house or building, along with its grounds.
• Example: "The entire premise was under surveillance."