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Negate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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negate

[nɪˈɡeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in logic

Deny the truth of (a statement), especially by asserting the opposite.

Synonyms

contradict, deny, disprove.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
negate

Use this verb when you want to express that something is nullified or rendered ineffective. It's often used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The latest findings negate the previous theory
  • The medication can negate the effects of the toxin
deny

Use this word when someone is refusing to accept or acknowledge something. It is common in both formal and informal settings and can often carry a negative connotation.

  • He denied stealing the money
  • She denied knowing anything about the incident
contradict

This word is best for situations where you are indicating that someone or something is providing an opposite statement or claim. It can be used in everyday conversations or formal settings.

  • The witness's testimony contradicts the defendant's story
  • She didn't want to contradict her boss's opinion
disprove

Choose this word when you need to indicate that something has been shown to be false through evidence or argument. It is commonly used in scientific, academic, or logical discussions.

  • The experiment was designed to disprove the hypothesis
  • New evidence can disprove long-held beliefs

Examples of usage

  • he negated the rumors
  • the counterclaims effectively negated the suit

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophical discourse, negation is a fundamental operation, especially in logic, where it is used to establish contradictory statements.
  • The concept of negating ideas plays a significant role in debates and discussions, allowing for contrast and critical thinking.
  • Established philosophers like Hegel often discussed negation as a part of dialectical progression, leading to new understandings.

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, negation often refers to changing the sign of a number (e.g., turning a positive into a negative) and is essential in algebra.
  • In Boolean algebra, negation is a basic operation that produces an output opposite to the input – true becomes false, and vice versa.
  • Negating a statement in mathematics can help in solving equations or clarifying the logic of proofs.

Psychology

  • Negation can influence cognitive processes, as denying certain thoughts or statements can lead to behavioral changes.
  • The act of negating can create a counterproductive cycle in negative thinking patterns, leading individuals to focus more on what they don’t want.
  • Therapeutic practices often encourage reframing negations into positive affirmations for mental well-being.

Linguistics

  • Negation is an essential feature of natural languages, allowing speakers to express denial, refusal, or contradiction.
  • Different languages have unique ways of expressing negation, such as double negatives in some varieties of English.
  • Studies in linguistics have shown that how a language structures negation can affect speakers' perceptions and interactions.

Origin of 'negate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'negare', meaning 'to deny' or 'refuse'.
  • It has been used in English since the late 14th century, highlighting its long-standing role in language.
  • Related words include 'negative', which ties back to the same Latin root.

The word 'negate' originated from the Latin word 'negatus', which means 'to deny'. The use of 'negate' in English dates back to the 17th century, where it was first used in the context of logic and philosophy. Over time, 'negate' has evolved to also encompass the idea of nullifying or making ineffective. Today, 'negate' is commonly used in various fields such as mathematics, science, and everyday language to express the act of denying or nullifying something.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,932, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.