formal logic

noun

1. the branch of logic concerned exclusively with the principles of deductive reasoning and with the form rather than the content of propositions.

formal logic

noun

1. See philosophical logic
   Also calledsymbolic logic the study of systems of deductive argument in which symbols are used to represent precisely defined categories of expressions Compare philosophical logic
2. a specific formal system that can be interpreted as representing a fragment of natural argument

Word History and Origins

Origin of formal logic¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Pinker’s main focus is the sort of conscious, sequential reasoning that can track the steps in a geometric proof or an argument in formal logic.

From Washington Post

It’s no small achievement to make formal logic, game theory, statistics and Bayesian reasoning delightful topics full of charm and relevance.

From Washington Post

Even though Aristotle invented formal logic, he apparently did not notice a certain amount of circularity in his argument.

From Science News

Errors of Antisthenes — depended partly on the imperfect formal logic of that day.

From Project Gutenberg

The answer of formal logic (adopted moreover by Kant and followed in some way by all neo-Kantian logics) is unambiguous.

From Project Gutenberg

But it is inconceivable that the generality of men should pass all their mental life with Greek accents or with formal logic.

From Project Gutenberg

The scholastic education of this time laid special stress on formal logic and metaphysics.

From Project Gutenberg

Formal logic teaches that our intellect must keep all things apart, but does not teach that it must also connect them.

From Project Gutenberg