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modus ponens

noun
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modus po·​nens | \ -ˈpōˌnenz \
plural modi ponentes\ -​pōˈnen‧ˌtēz \

Definition of modus ponens

: a mode of reasoning from a hypothetical proposition according to which if the antecedent be affirmed the consequent is affirmed (as, if A is true, B is true; but A is true; therefore, B is true)

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History and Etymology for modus ponens

New Latin, proposing mode

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Cite this Entry

“Modus ponens.” The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Inc., https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modus%20ponens. Accessed 19 January 2020.

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