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Confutation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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confutation

[หŒkษ’nfjสŠหˆteษชสƒษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

logical argument

Confutation refers to the act of proving a statement, theory, or argument to be false or wrong. It involves refuting or disproving the validity of a claim through logical reasoning and evidence.

Synonyms

disproof, rebuttal, refutation, repudiation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
confutation

This entry is a duplicate and should be removed.
refutation

Used broadly in both formal and informal settings to describe the act of proving a statement or theory wrong.

  • Her refutation of the myths surrounding dieting was well-received by the audience.
disproof

Used when presenting evidence or argument that definitively shows that a statement or hypothesis is false.

  • The lawyer's cross-examination led to a disproof of the witness's earlier testimony.
rebuttal

Commonly used in debates and legal settings to provide counterarguments or evidence against previously presented points.

  • In his rebuttal, the attorney challenged the credibility of the prosecution's key witness.
repudiation

Often used in political or legal contexts, with a stronger connotation of rejection and denial. It can carry a negative or confrontational tone.

  • The politician's repudiation of the scandalous rumors was vehement and decisive.

Examples of usage

  • His confutation of the opposing argument was so compelling that no one could refute it.
  • The confutation of the hypothesis was based on empirical evidence and sound reasoning.
  • The debate ended with a powerful confutation of the proposed legislation.
  • The confutation of the conspiracy theory left the skeptics with no ground to stand on.
  • She presented a strong confutation of the allegations against her.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophical discussions, confutation is central to dialectical methods, where two opposing ideas are debated.
  • Confutation often aims to achieve clarity in arguments, helping to distinguish between truth and falsehood.
  • Many famous philosophers, including Socrates, practiced forms of confutation through questioning to reveal contradictions in thinking.

Rhetoric

  • In rhetoric, confutation can enhance persuasive speaking by directly addressing and countering opposing arguments.
  • Effective confutation often involves using evidence, logic, and strong reasoning.
  • It is a key strategy in debates, where both sides try to undermine the otherโ€™s position.

Education

  • Teachers often encourage students to practice confutation by questioning popular misconceptions.
  • Skills developed through confutation can enhance critical thinking, helping students analyze arguments effectively.
  • Confutation is often employed in research, where scholars challenge previous findings to advance knowledge.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, confutation appears during argument scenes where characters debunk each otherโ€™s claims.
  • Famous court cases often showcase confutation as lawyers attempt to disprove evidence presented by the opposition.
  • Debate competitions often spotlight the art of confutation, highlighting the importance of logic and strategy in real-time arguments.

Origin of 'confutation'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'confutatio', meaning 'to refute or disprove'.
  • The prefix 'con-' suggests 'together', while 'futare' relates to 'to beat' or 'to strike down', making it about striking down an idea.
  • It has been part of the English language since the late 16th century, often used in formal debates.

The word 'confutation' has its roots in Latin, deriving from the verb 'confutare,' meaning 'to refute.' The term has been used in English since the 16th century, originally in the context of academic debates and logical arguments. Over time, 'confutation' has come to be associated with the act of disproving or refuting a claim through evidence and reasoning.

See also: confute.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,096 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.