Definition

A type of argument that demonstrates the truth of a statement by showing that the opposite is impossible or unreasonable.

Example

The lawyer used an apagoge to convince the jury that the defendant could not have committed the crime.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term apagoge?

No, I haven't. What does it mean?

It's an argument that shows the absurdity of the opposite side.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Apagoge is derived from the Greek word "apagoge" (ἀπαγόγη), which means "leading away" or "removal." The term is formed from "apo-" (meaning away) and "agō" (meaning to lead). Thus, it refers to the act of leading something away or removing it from a particular context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'leading away' ('apo-' means away and 'agō' means to lead) to remember that apagoge refers to the act of removing or leading something away.

Visually Confused Words