logic
HighFormal to neutral
Definition
Meaning
The systematic study of valid reasoning and inference; the principles of correct thinking.
A particular system or method of reasoning; the underlying reason or rationale behind something; the way in which something is organized or functions.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word can refer to the abstract discipline (formal logic), a person's internal reasoning process (her logic was flawed), or the inherent rationale of a system or situation (the logic of the market).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Identical connotations of rationality, systematic thought, and sound reasoning in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common and used in identical contexts in both British and American English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
the logic of [noun phrase]by that logicthere is a logic to [noun phrase]follow a logicapply logic to [noun phrase]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “chop logic (archaic)”
- “the logic of the situation”
- “by the same logic”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used to discuss strategic rationale, e.g., 'The logic behind the merger was to increase market share.'
Academic
Central term in philosophy, mathematics, and computer science, referring to formal systems of proof and reasoning.
Everyday
Used to describe sensible reasoning, e.g., 'I can't see the logic in leaving so early.'
Technical
In computing, refers to the algorithms and operational principles of a program or circuit (e.g., 'program logic', 'logic gate').
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- To logic one's way through a problem is a rare but understood usage.
American English
- He tried to logic out the solution, step by step.
adverb
British English
- He argued very logically, presenting each point in sequence.
American English
- The plan was logically sound but impractical.
adjective
British English
- The argument was logical and well-structured.
American English
- That's the most logical choice given the circumstances.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I don't understand the logic of this game.
- Her logic was easy to follow.
- There's no logic in worrying about things you can't change.
- By that logic, we should all leave now.
- The internal logic of the novel's fantasy world is remarkably consistent.
- His proposal was rejected due to its faulty economic logic.
- The philosopher challenged the underlying logic of the ethical framework.
- Deconstructing the flawed logic of the argument required meticulous analysis.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LOG: it's solid, straight, and follows a clear line. LOGic is the straight line of clear thinking.
Conceptual Metaphor
THINKING IS A PATH/JOURNEY (e.g., 'follow that line of logic', 'where is your logic leading you?').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'логика' which can colloquially mean 'common sense'. English 'logic' is more formal and systematic.
- The adjective 'logical' does not always translate directly to 'логичный'; it can mean 'sensible' or 'expected'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'logics' as a plural (uncountable; use 'systems of logic' or 'types of logic').
- Confusing 'logic' (the system) with 'logistics' (the organization of complex operations).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is 'logic' a core technical term?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily uncountable. You don't say 'a logic' or 'logics' to mean a single piece of reasoning. It becomes countable only when referring to distinct systems (e.g., 'Aristotelian and Boolean logics').
'Logic' refers to a formal, systematic method of reasoning. 'Reason' is broader, encompassing all mental processes of thinking, understanding, and forming judgments, including intuition and emotion.
It is very rare and considered non-standard or jargonistic (e.g., in computing: 'to logic through a problem'). The standard verb forms are 'reason' or 'deduce'.
It is an archaic idiom meaning to argue pedantically or use excessively subtle and technically sophisticated reasoning, often in a disputatious way.
Collections
Part of a collection
Abstract Thinking
B2 · 49 words · Words for ideas, reasoning and intellectual concepts.
Debate Vocabulary
B2 · 48 words · Language for constructing arguments and discussions.
Philosophy and Ethics
C1 · 50 words · Philosophical concepts and ethical reasoning.
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