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Definition of deductive

deductive

/dɪˈdʌk.tɪv/
de · duc · tive
Adverb:deductively
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deductive Lexical Profile

deductive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by or based on the inference of particular instances from a general law or premise.

Example

"The detective used deductive reasoning to narrow down the list of suspects based on the established timeline."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for deductive

Word Nuance & Usage

Often contrasted with 'inductive': 'deductive' reasoning moves from general premises to a guaranteed specific conclusion, whereas 'inductive' reasoning moves from specific observations to a probable general rule.

• Rhymes for deductive

• Nearby Words

deduct
deductible
deduction
deductive
deductively
deduplicate
dee

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Late Latin deductivus, from Latin deduct-, the past participial stem of deducere ('to lead down' or 'to derive'), formed from de- ('down') and ducere ('to lead').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deductive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deductive
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