elenchus
[ih-leng-kuh s]
- a logical refutation; an argument that refutes another argument by proving the contrary of its conclusion.
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Origin of elenchus
1655–65; < Latin < Greek élenchos refutation
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for elenchus
Historical Examples
His peculiar gift was that of cross-examination, or the application of his Elenchus to discriminate pretended from real knowledge.
The separate value of the negative procedure or Elenchus was never before so unequivocally asserted, or so highly estimated.
Sokratic spirit of the dialogue — confessed ignorance applying the Elenchus to false persuasion of knowledge.
Here commence the series of difficulties and contradictions brought out by the Elenchus of Parmenides.
Cross-examination, the shock of the Elenchus, must be brought to bear upon it.
elenchus
- refutation of an argument by proving the contrary of its conclusion, esp syllogistically
- Socratic elenchus the drawing out of the consequences of a position in order to show them to be contrary to some accepted position
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Word Origin
C17: from Latin, from Greek elenkhos refutation, from elenkhein to put to shame, refute
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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