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Refutation: meaning, definitions and examples

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refutation

 

[ ˌrefjʊˈteɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

logical argument

A refutation is the act of proving a statement or theory to be wrong or false. It involves providing evidence or logical reasoning to demonstrate the inaccuracies or weaknesses in the argument being challenged.

Synonyms

contradiction, disproof, rebuttal

Examples of usage

  • Her refutation of his claims left him speechless.
  • The scientist presented a strong refutation of the hypothesis during the debate.
Context #2 | Noun

legal context

In a legal context, a refutation refers to the response or argument made to counter a claim or accusation. It is aimed at disproving the allegations brought against someone.

Synonyms

denial, disproof, rebuttal

Examples of usage

  • The defense attorney prepared a thorough refutation of the prosecution's evidence.
  • The refutation presented in court strengthened the defendant's case.
Context #3 | Noun

philosophical debate

In philosophical debates, a refutation is the act of disproving or undermining an opponent's argument or position through logical reasoning and counterarguments.

Synonyms

contradiction, disproof, rebuttal

Examples of usage

  • The philosopher's refutation of the opposing theory was well-received by the audience.
  • The refutation of the existentialist viewpoint sparked a heated discussion.

Translations

Translations of the word "refutation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refutação

🇮🇳 खंडन

🇩🇪 Widerlegung

🇮🇩 penyangkalan

🇺🇦 спростування

🇵🇱 odparcie

🇯🇵 反論 (hanron)

🇫🇷 réfutation

🇪🇸 refutación

🇹🇷 çürütme

🇰🇷 반박 (banbak)

🇸🇦 دحض

🇨🇿 vyvrácení

🇸🇰 vyvrátenie

🇨🇳 反驳 (fǎnbó)

🇸🇮 zavrnitev

🇮🇸 hrakning

🇰🇿 теріске шығару

🇬🇪 უარყოფა

🇦🇿 təkzib

🇲🇽 refutación

Etymology

The word 'refutation' originates from the Latin word 'refutare,' meaning 'to check' or 'to repel.' It entered the English language in the late 16th century, primarily used in the context of logic and debate. Over time, 'refutation' has become a common term in various fields such as philosophy, law, and science, signifying the act of disproving or challenging a claim or argument.

See also: irrefutable, irrefutably.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,257, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.