Definition

Not based on deduction or reasoning from general principles to specific cases.

Example

The researcher used a nondeductive approach to analyze the data.

Conversation

I was reading about reasoning methods in class today.

Oh really? What did they say about nondeductive reasoning?

They mentioned that it's different from deductive reasoning, which I found interesting.

That makes sense — nondeductive reasoning can be quite useful in everyday situations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nondeductive → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "deduct" (from Latin "deducere", meaning to lead down or derive). The word "nondeductive" refers to reasoning that does not derive conclusions from general principles or premises.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') leading down to a conclusion ('deduct') — that's why nondeductive means not leading to a conclusion from general principles.

Visually Confused Words