Meaning & Definition of word "Deduction"

Deduction

/dɪˈdʌkʃən/

noun:

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

induction:

A reasoning process where general principles are derived from specific observations.

inference:

A conclusion derived from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.

abduction:

A form of logical inference that goes from an observable fact to a plausible generalization.

Slang Meanings of deduction

Meaning: A deduction about someone's behavior.

Example Sentence: He made a deduction about her feelings based on her body language.

Meaning: Tax deductions often spoken informally as tax breaks.

Example Sentence: I just got all my tax break info ready for the accountant.