Meaning & Definition of word "Negation"

Negation

/nɪˈɡeɪʃən/

noun:

  • 1. The contradiction or denial of something; the opposite of affirmation.
    • Example: The experiment demonstrated the negation of the previously accepted theory.
  • 2. The logical operation that takes a proposition and returns its opposite truth value.
    • Example: In formal logic, negation is often represented by the symbol '¬'.
  • 3. The process of making something ineffective or void.
    • Example: The treaty included a negation of any prior agreements regarding nuclear weapons.
  • 4. An expression that results in the denial or contradiction of a statement.
    • Example: The phrase 'not true' serves as a clear example of negation in language.

Etymology

From Latin 'negatio', meaning 'a refusal or denial'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

no way:

Used to express disbelief or negation.

not at all:

Used to express complete negation.

absolutely not:

Used to emphatically deny something.

Related Words

deny:

To state that something is not true.

refute:

To disprove or contradict.

nullify:

To make of no value or effect.

Slang Meanings of negation

Meaning: Nah

Example Sentence: When asked if he wanted to go out, he just said 'nah'.

Meaning: Nope

Example Sentence: Will you join us for dinner? Nope!