hypothetical argument
[ˌhaɪpəˈθɛtɪkəl ˈɑrɡjumənt]
nounpl: hypothetical arguments
argumento hipotético
1. An argument based on a proposed or supposed situation that may not be true or may not exist in reality, used to explore logical conclusions or test reasoning
The lawyer presented a hypothetical argument to demonstrate how the law would apply in different circumstances.
O advogado apresentou um argumento hipotético para demonstrar como a lei se aplicaria em diferentes circunstâncias.
2. In logic and rhetoric, a form of reasoning that starts with an assumed premise and explores its implications
Using a hypothetical argument, the professor asked students to consider what would happen if gravity suddenly stopped working.
Usando um argumento hipotético, o professor pediu aos alunos que considerassem o que aconteceria se a gravidade parasse de funcionar repentinamente.
3. A discourse technique employed in debates or discussions to illustrate a point without asserting it as fact
The politician used a hypothetical argument to criticize her opponent's policy position.
A política usou um argumento hipotético para criticar a posição política de seu oponente.
The term is widely used in academic, legal, and philosophical contexts in both Brazilian Portuguese and English-speaking cultures. In Brazil, hypothetical arguments are particularly valued in law schools and debate competitions. In the USA, they are frequently used in courtrooms, policy discussions, and educational settings as a rhetorical device to explore complex scenarios without making definitive claims.
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