adj

deductive

dih-DUHK-tihv

Deductive (adj) means relating to or based on deduction — reasoning from general principles to a specific conclusion. Example: “Sherlock Holmes was famous for his deductive reasoning.”

adj

Relating to or based on deduction — reasoning from general principles to a specific conclusion.

"Sherlock Holmes was famous for his deductive reasoning."

How to use deductive

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes reasoning that moves from general rules down to a specific, certain conclusion.

Common mistake

Deductive reasoning goes from general to specific with certainty; inductive reasoning goes from specific observations to a general (probable) conclusion.

Easily confused with

inductive

Common pairings

deductive reasoning deductive logic deductive method

Word forms

more deductive comparative, most deductive superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “deductive” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Sherlock Holmes was famous for his _____ reasoning.

Etymology

Formed from deduct + -ive.

Rhymes for deductive

five give dive live olive drive alive strive derive active arrive native

See all rhymes for deductive →

Frequently asked questions

What does “deductive” mean?

The word “deductive” means relating to or based on deduction — reasoning from general principles to a specific conclusion. In plain terms, describes reasoning that moves from general rules down to a specific, certain conclusion.

How do you pronounce “deductive”?

“Deductive” is pronounced dih-DUHK-tihv (/dɪˈdʌktɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “deductive” in a sentence?

Here is “deductive” used in a sentence: “Sherlock Holmes was famous for his deductive reasoning.”

What part of speech is “deductive”?

“Deductive” is an adjective.