a priori knowledge

[ə praɪˈɔːri ˈnɑːlɪdʒ]
noun
conhecimento a priori
1. Knowledge that is known to be true independently of experience; knowledge derived from reason alone without empirical observation
Mathematical truths like 2+2=4 are examples of a priori knowledge because they can be known through reason alone.
Verdades matemáticas como 2+2=4 são exemplos de conhecimento a priori porque podem ser conhecidas apenas através da razão.
2. In philosophy, knowledge that is universal and necessary, not contingent on sensory experience
Kant argued that a priori knowledge forms the foundation of human understanding and shapes how we perceive the world.
Kant argumentou que o conhecimento a priori forma a base da compreensão humana e molda como percebemos o mundo.
This is a formal philosophical term widely used in academic discourse in both Brazilian and Portuguese universities, as well as in English-speaking academic institutions. The term maintains its Latin origin across multiple languages. It is particularly important in discussions of epistemology, metaphysics, and philosophy of science. In Brazil, this concept is taught extensively in philosophy courses at the university level.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
innate knowledgerational knowledgenecessary knowledgeuniversal knowledge
Antonyms / Antônimos
a posteriori knowledgeempirical knowledgeexperiential knowledgecontingent knowledge

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
conhecimento a priori
Standard philosophical term used across Brazil
Portugal
conhecimento a priori
Same term used in Portuguese academia and philosophy departments
Academic English
a priori knowledge
Formal philosophical terminology retained from Latin in English-speaking contexts

Related Words

epistemologyrationalismsynthetic a priorianalytic knowledgeKantmetaphysics

Related Idioms & Phrases

a priori reasoning
a priori assumption
a priori principle
pure a priori knowledge
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