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subcontrary

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //sʌbˈkɒntrəri//

KK: /sʌbˈkɒntrəri/

noun
Definition

In logic, a statement that can be true at the same time as another statement, but both cannot be false at the same time.


Example

In a logical argument, the two subcontrary propositions can coexist without contradiction.


Conversation
Sloth A
I was reading about logic, and I came across the term subcontrary.
Sloth B
Oh, really? What does that mean exactly?
Sloth A
It refers to propositions that can both be true, but not both false at the same time.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I love learning new concepts like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
proposition
statement
claim
Antonyms
contradiction
negation
refutation
Root Explanation

Subcontrary → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "contrarius" (meaning opposite). The term describes a relationship where two propositions can both be true, but are opposites in a certain context, hence one is under the other in terms of logical structure.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') an 'opposite' ('contrarius') — this helps you remember that 'subcontrary' refers to a relationship where two opposing ideas can coexist.

Visually Confused Words
contrary
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