Deductive

usgb/dɪˈdʌktɪv/
adjective

Related to a type of reasoning or thinking where you begin with a general idea and then figure out the specific details.

His deductive reasoning skills helped him solve the problem.
Visual representation of "deductive" - Related to a type of reasoning or thinking where you begin with a general idea and then figure out the specific details

Often appears as...

  • deductive reasoning
  • deductive logic
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "deductive"
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Top-down Logic

Deductive reasoning starts from a general theory down to specifics.

Illustration for Top-down Logic
Using deductive reasoning, she inferred the solution from the overall theory.
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Problem Solving

Use 'deductive' to describe logical problem-solving strategies.

Illustration for Problem Solving
Her deductive approach streamlined the troubleshooting process.
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Contrast with Inductive

Understand the difference from 'inductive'; deductive works from general to specific.

Illustration for Contrast with Inductive
Unlike inductive techniques, his deductive analysis began with an established hypothesis.
Visual representation of the word "Deductive"

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