Definition

Relating to or expressing a situation that is contrary to the facts or reality, often used in discussions about hypothetical scenarios or alternate histories.

Example

The historian presented a counterfactual analysis of what might have happened if the war had ended differently.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how counterfactual history could change our view of events?

Yeah, it's interesting to imagine what might have happened differently.

Exactly! Like, what if a key battle had gone the other way?

Right! Those counterfactual scenarios can really make you rethink everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counterfactual → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against or opposite) and "factual" (from Latin "factus", meaning made or done). The word refers to something that is contrary to the facts or reality, often used in hypothetical scenarios.

Memory Tip

Think of 'counter-' meaning against and 'factual' relating to facts — this helps you remember that 'counterfactual' refers to ideas that go against the actual facts.

Visually Confused Words