noun

syllogism

SIL-uh-jiz-uhm

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Syllogism (noun) means a logical argument made up of two premises and a conclusion, where a term shared by the premises links them but is left out of the conclusion. Example: “The philosophy tutor asked students to construct a valid syllogism.”

noun

formal A logical argument made up of two premises and a conclusion, where a term shared by the premises links them but is left out of the conclusion.

"The philosophy tutor asked students to construct a valid syllogism."

"Her argument followed the classic form of a syllogism."

"He tested the syllogism for flaws in its logic."

How to use syllogism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIt is a tightly structured logical argument built from two statements leading to a conclusion.

When to use it

The word belongs to formal and academic writing, especially in logic and philosophy.

Memory tip

Learn the standard example about Socrates being mortal, as it is the pattern most people use to recall the term.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

construct a syllogism valid syllogism classic syllogism form of a syllogism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The philosophy tutor asked students to construct a valid _____.

Etymology

The word passed into English from Old French silogisme, which came from Latin syllogismus, itself borrowed from Ancient Greek. The Greek term meant an inference or a conclusion reached by reasoning.

Origin: Old French

Rhymes for syllogism

neologism

See all rhymes for syllogism →

Frequently asked questions

What is a syllogism?

It is a form of logical argument with two premises and a conclusion, where a term common to both premises does not appear in the conclusion.

What is an example of a syllogism?

A classic form runs: all men are mortal, Socrates is a man, therefore Socrates is mortal.

Is a syllogism the same as an argument?

A syllogism is a specific, structured type of argument used in formal logic, not just any argument.

What is the meaning of syllogism?

"syllogism" (noun) means a logical argument made up of two premises and a conclusion, where a term shared by the premises links them but is left out of the conclusion.