noun a Latin phrase meaning 'to the point of absurdity', often used in logic and argumentation to demonstrate the absurdity of a certain claim or argument
In philosophy, ad absurdum is used to show the absurdity or self-contradictory nature of a position or argument.
In logic, ad absurdum is a form of argument where a proposition is demonstrated to be true by showing that a false, untenable, or absurd result follows from its denial.
In mathematics, ad absurdum is a proof technique where a statement is proven by assuming the opposite and deriving a contradiction.
In debates, ad absurdum can be used as a rhetorical device to highlight the flaws or weaknesses in an opponent's argument by taking it to an extreme and showing its absurd consequences.
In writing, 'ad absurdum' is used to demonstrate the absurdity of a certain argument or point by taking it to its extreme and showing how illogical or unreasonable it becomes.
In psychology, 'ad absurdum' can be used to challenge cognitive distortions or irrational beliefs held by clients by showing the extreme consequences of such beliefs.
In mathematics, 'ad absurdum' is a common proof technique where a statement is proven by assuming the opposite and arriving at a contradiction.
In law, 'ad absurdum' can be used to show the absurdity of a legal argument or interpretation by taking it to its logical extreme and demonstrating its flaws.