Translation guide
A syllogism is a logical argument that applies deductive reasoning to arrive at a conclusion based on two or more propositions that are asserted or assumed to be true. In Japanese, this concept is primarily expressed using the loanword 三段論法, but related logical patterns and everyday reasoning expressions are also useful.
To refer to the formal logical structure consisting of a major premise, a minor premise, and a conclusion.
The standard term for 'syllogism' in logic. It directly translates to 'three-step argument method'.
アリストテレスは三段論法を体系化した。
Aristotle systematized the syllogism.
この三段論法は前提が誤っている。
The premise of this syllogism is incorrect.
A more technical term for 'syllogism' or 'inference formula', used in formal logic contexts.
この推論式は妥当である。
This syllogism is valid.
To express a simple deductive argument in everyday conversation, often using conditional or causal patterns.
A direct translation of the syllogism structure. 'したがって' means 'therefore'. This pattern is clear and logical.
すべての人間は死ぬ。ソクラテスは人間である。したがって、ソクラテスは死ぬ。
All humans are mortal. Socrates is a human. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.
Uses 'ならば' (if) and 'ゆえに' (therefore), which sounds slightly more formal or literary.
雨が降れば地面が濡れる。地面が濡れれば滑りやすい。ゆえに雨が降れば滑りやすい。
If it rains, the ground gets wet. If the ground is wet, it's slippery. Therefore, if it rains, it's slippery.
A casual way to chain reasoning using 'だから' (because) and 'つまり' (in short). Suitable for conversation.
甘いものは太る。太ると健康に悪い。つまり甘いものは健康に悪いってこと。
Sweets make you fat. Being fat is bad for your health. So, in short, sweets are bad for your health.
To describe a seemingly logical but flawed argument, often used in debate or criticism.
Means 'sophistic syllogism', implying a deceptive or fallacious argument.
彼の主張は詭弁的な三段論法に過ぎない。
His argument is nothing but a sophistic syllogism.
Literally 'erroneous syllogism', used to point out a logical fallacy.
それは誤った三段論法だ。前提が真実とは限らない。
That's a false syllogism. The premises aren't necessarily true.
While 三段論法 is the direct translation, it sounds academic. In everyday conversation, it's more natural to express the logical flow using patterns like 「AだからB、BだからC、つまりAはC」 rather than explicitly naming the syllogism.
毎日練習すれば上手くなる。上手くなれば試合に勝てる。つまり毎日練習すれば勝てるんだ。
If you practice every day, you'll get better. If you get better, you'll win matches. So, in short, if you practice every day, you'll win.