syllogism

Definition of syllogismnext
as in logic
formal a formal argument that is formed by two statements and a conclusion which must be true if the two statements are true An example of a syllogism is: "All men are human; all humans are mortal; therefore all men are mortal."

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of syllogism And Lincoln has a famous syllogism where, If the Black man can be enslaved because his skin is darker than yours, then you can be enslaved by anyone whose skin is fairer than yours. David Frum, The Atlantic, 10 June 2026 This syllogism is embraced by many Democrats, who are determined to recapture an industrial working-class base, and many Republicans, who use it as evidence that the government has sold out American workers in the heartland. Adam S. Posen, Foreign Affairs, 20 Apr. 2021 Twitter users often accept a flawed syllogism by using a conclusion as one of the premises – namely, that the platform spreads truthful information. Aaron Duncan, The Conversation, 29 Oct. 2020 Chairman Xi will undoubtedly want to prevent this syllogism from presenting itself to the minds of Chinese Christians. Cameron Hilditch, National Review, 1 Oct. 2020
Recent Examples of Synonyms for syllogism
Noun
  • Known as programmable logic controllers, these devices can be used like an industrial version of home thermostats.
    AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 6 Aug. 2026
  • The hackers accessed small computers called programmable logic controllers at the water systems that operate all sorts of industrial equipment.
    William Akoto, Fortune, 5 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • This emergent behavior by agents single-mindedly focused on accomplishing their goals combined with powerful reasoning models is cause for even greater concern than previously revealed.
    Ron Schmelzer, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
  • To follow Bessent’s reasoning, then, ordinary American consumers got charged billions of dollars to pay for a tax cut that put pennies in their pockets.
    Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Analysis that once required multiple people and rounds of synthesis can be generated in minutes.
    Susan Asiyanbi, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Plus, the formula boosts melanin synthesis to halt premature color loss.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 5 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Syllogism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/syllogism. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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