tautologies
[tɔːˈtɑːlədʒiz]
nounpl: tautologies
tautologias
1. A statement that is always true because it repeats the same idea in different words, making it logically redundant
The phrase 'a bachelor is an unmarried man' is a tautology because it repeats the definition.
A frase 'um solteiro é um homem não casado' é uma tautologia porque repete a definição.
2. In logic and mathematics, a formula that is true under all possible interpretations or truth value assignments
In formal logic, 'P or not-P' is a tautology that must always be true.
Em lógica formal, 'P ou não-P' é uma tautologia que deve ser sempre verdadeira.
3. Unnecessary or redundant repetition of ideas or words in speech or writing
Saying 'free gift' contains a tautology since gifts are already free.
Dizer 'presente gratuito' contém uma tautologia já que presentes já são gratuitos.
Tautologies are commonly discussed in academic contexts in both Brazil and the USA, particularly in philosophy, logic, mathematics, and linguistics courses. In Brazilian Portuguese, the term 'tautologia' is equally formal and technical. The concept is often used to criticize redundant or circular reasoning in debates and academic writing.
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