Enthymeme meaning

An enthymeme is a rhetorical device where an argument is made with a missing premise that is implied rather than explicitly stated.


Enthymeme definitions

Word backwards ememyhtne
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division en-thy-meme
Plural The plural form of the word "enthymeme" is "enthymemes."
Total letters 9
Vogais (1) e
Consonants (5) n,t,h,y,m

Understanding Enthymeme

Enthymeme is a rhetorical device that is used to persuade an audience by making an argument based on a premise and a conclusion, with the unstated assumption filling in the gap. This type of argument is commonly used in debates, speeches, and essays to convince the audience of a certain viewpoint.

Structure of Enthymeme

Enthymemes typically consist of three parts: the major premise, the minor premise, and the conclusion. The major premise is a general statement or principle that is accepted as true. The minor premise is a specific statement or example that supports the major premise. The conclusion is the logical result that follows from the major and minor premises.

Importance of Enthymeme

Enthymeme is important because it allows speakers and writers to make persuasive arguments that resonate with their audience. By using unstated assumptions and logical reasoning, enthymemes can be more effective in convincing people of a certain viewpoint compared to explicit arguments.

Example of Enthymeme

A classic example of an enthymeme is the following: "Socrates is mortal because he is a human." In this case, the major premise is that all humans are mortal, the minor premise is that Socrates is a human, and the conclusion is that Socrates is mortal. The unstated assumption is that Socrates shares the same characteristics as other humans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, enthymeme is a powerful rhetorical device that is used to persuade an audience by making implicit arguments. By understanding the structure and importance of enthymeme, speakers and writers can craft compelling arguments that resonate with their audience and effectively convey their message.


Enthymeme Examples

  1. The politician's argument was built on an enthymeme that appealed to the emotions of the audience.
  2. As a literary device, an enthymeme can strengthen an author's argument by allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions.
  3. The detective used an enthymeme to piece together the evidence and solve the crime.
  4. In a courtroom, a lawyer might use an enthymeme to simplify a complex legal argument for the jury.
  5. The teacher encouraged her students to analyze advertisements by identifying the enthymeme within them.
  6. A skilled debater can effectively use enthymemes to persuade an audience without explicitly stating every part of their argument.
  7. During a political speech, a candidate may strategically use enthymemes to sway voters to their side.
  8. In rhetoric, an enthymeme is often used to bridge the gap between the speaker's argument and the audience's beliefs.
  9. The comedian's joke relied on an enthymeme that required the audience to understand the implied punchline.
  10. Students studying logic will often encounter enthymemes as they learn to analyze and construct sound arguments.


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  • Updated 15/05/2024 - 08:56:49