deductive

adjective

de·​duc·​tive di-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce deductive (audio)
dē-
Synonyms of deductivenext
1
: of, relating to, or provable by deriving conclusions by reasoning : of, relating to, or provable by deduction (see deduction sense 2a)
deductive principles
2
: employing deduction in reasoning
conclusions based on deductive logic
deductively adverb

Examples of deductive in a Sentence

a conclusion based on deductive reasoning using deductive reasoning we must conclude that since everyone eventually dies, sooner or later it's going to be our turn
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The flock attentively listened to the rules of crime solving from George’s books and put all that deductive reasoning to work when George is found dead. Randy Myers, Mercury News, 7 May 2026 These agents use context, priorities, and goals to provide timely insights that enhance human strategic and deductive reasoning. Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 25 Jan. 2026 This marble run nurtures engineering skills and promotes deductive reasoning, logical thinking and problem-solving. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 4 Aug. 2025 The structure of her show also gives her a deductive spotlight scene (or three) in every episode. Joe Reid, Vulture, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for deductive

Word History

Etymology

see deduct

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deductive was in 1646

Cite this Entry

“Deductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deductive. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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