circular definition
Americannoun
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Definitions vary widely; a typically subjective and circular definition comes from Dr. John E. Ikerd, extension professor at the University of Missouri:
From Forbes ● Nov. 19, 2014
“Best” is apparently defined by being at the service academies, and that is a circular definition.
From Washington Post ● Dec. 30, 2011
This, however, is a circular definition: it assumes that we already know what is meant by 'known premisses'.
From The Problems of Philosophy by Russell, Bertrand
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