Deduction

/dɪˈdʌkʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The process of reasoning from one or more statements (premises) to reach a logically certain conclusion.
Her conclusion was reached through careful deduction of the facts presented.
A subtraction; the amount that is subtracted from a total.
The tax deduction helped reduce his overall taxable income substantially.
The act of taking away or reducing something.
The deduction of funds from the account was necessary to cover the expenses.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin deductio, from deducere 'to lead down.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

tax deduction:
An expense that can be subtracted from gross income to reduce the amount of income subject to tax.
logical deduction:
A process of reasoning wherein a conclusion is drawn from a set of premises.
deduction method:
A method of reasoning where conclusions are drawn by logically applying general principles.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A deduction about someone's behavior.
He made a deduction about her feelings based on her body language.
Tax deductions often spoken informally as tax breaks.
I just got all my tax break info ready for the accountant.