formal logic
1
6.7
- noun
- /ˈfɔrməl ˈlɒdʒɪk/
- Specialized
:
lógica formal
- Formal logic is essential for evaluating the validity of statements in mathematics and computer science.
Examples
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An example for those not trained in formal logic: When it rains, the street becomes wet.
Blog text (1) -
At the same time, he is passionately devoted to formal logic.
Academic text (1992) -
It is impossible to prove anything outside of mathematics and formal logic.
Blog text (4) -
It follows that formal logic, as a branch of mathematics, will always fall short of representing the essential character of logic itself.
Academic text (1994) -
On the one hand, the Tractatus constitutes an enormous step forward in the development of formal logic by proposing the so-called "picture theory" of meaning.
Academic text (2003) -
Many of the active publishers were specialists in formal logic or the history of philosophy and did not contribute to contemporary debates on currently fashionable philosophical problems.
Academic text (2001) -
Kant and his successors have been wrong in thinking there is a realm of aesthetic value, distinct from morality and politics and governed solely by its own formal logic.
Academic text (1992) -
Understanding formal logic helps you to analyze arguments clearly and systematically.
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In philosophy classes, students often study formal logic to enhance their critical thinking skills.
Synonyms
1
6.4
A part of math that studies rules and proofs about statements
A way of using signs like letters to show the structure of arguments and statements
How Formal
- Specialized
1
6.4
- Specialized
- Specialized
1
6.7
- Specialized
1
9.4
1
3.7
Surface Forms
Morphology
The noun phrase is compositionally built: 'formal' (relating to form, rules, or systematic methods) qualifies 'logic' (the study of valid inference), so the meaning 'logic concerned with form/structure' is directly derivable from the parts. This is a straightforward adjective+noun subtype common across languages, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents would very likely infer the intended meaning, even if they miss some technical nuances.
Etymology
The phrase formal logic comes from the word formal, which here means 'form' or 'shape' of an argument, and logic, the study of correct thinking. So, formal logic studies the form and rules of arguments, not what they are about, which is why the name fits.