Premise

Noun

Definition: A previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion.

Definition: A proposition supporting or helping to support a conclusion.

Synonyms: Assumption, Presupposition, Postulate

Antonyms: Conclusion, Result, Consequence

Examples:
  • The premise of her argument is that all humans have certain inalienable rights.
  • The detective carefully examined the premises of the crime scene.
Mnemonics:
  • Pre-MISS the Premises: Remember the premises are statements that come before or support the conclusion.
  • Think of the premises as the building blocks of an argument.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English and Old French, from Latin 'praemissa' meaning "things mentioned before"

Historical Usage:

The word 'premise' has been used in English since the 14th century. Its use in logic dates back to ancient Greece.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Grant someone a premise"

Explanation:

To accept or agree with someone's starting point or assumption in an argument or discussion.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the term 'premise' with 'premises'.

Explanation:

'Premises' refers to the land and the buildings located on it, while 'premise' is an individual statement or proposition in an argument.

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