Petitio principii

//pɪˈtɪʃiˌəʊ prɪnˈkɪpiˌaɪ// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    The logical fallacy of begging the question (i.e., "assuming the conclusion"). uncountable
  2. 2
    the logical fallacy of assuming the conclusion in the premises; begging the question wordnet
  3. 3
    A particular argument which commits the fallacy of begging the question; a circular argument. countable

    "A somewhat similar objection has been made by Locke and others, to the effect that the ordinary demonstrative syllogism is a petitio principii."

Etymology

From Latin petītiō prīncipiī (literally “an assumption from the beginning”), calque of Ancient Greek τὸ ἐν ἀρχῇ αἰτεῖσθαι (tò en arkhēî aiteîsthai, “to assume from the beginning”).

Next best steps

Mini challenge

Want a quick game? Try Word Finder.