Definition

Describing a relationship where no element is related to itself within a specific set.

Example

In mathematics, an irreflexive relation means that no element is related to itself.

Conversation

I was reading about different types of relations in math class today.

Oh really? What did you learn about them?

We talked about irreflexive relations and how they don't relate to themselves.

That sounds interesting! I never knew there was a term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Irreflexive → It is formed from "ir-" (meaning not) and "reflexive" (from Latin "reflexivus", meaning reflecting or turned back). The word describes a situation where there is no reflection or return, particularly in grammatical terms where a subject does not refer back to itself.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('ir-') and 'reflecting' ('reflexive') to remember that 'irreflexive' means something that does not reflect back.

Visually Confused Words