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Definitions from the Web

Begs the Question

Part of Speech: Verb, Noun, Idiom

Sense: To assume as true the very thing that one is trying to prove

Usage: The phrase "begs the question" is commonly used in logic and rhetoric to describe a flawed argument where the conclusion is assumed or presupposed in the premise.

Examples:

Verb:

1. The politician's statement begs the question of whether he truly understands the issue at hand.
2. His argument begged the question and failed to provide any evidence supporting his claims.

Noun:

1. Using that kind of reasoning is a clear example of begging the question.
2. The fallacy of begging the question often leads to circular arguments.

Idiom:

1. His purchase of a new sports car begs the question of how he can afford it on his salary.
2. When she showed up to work in a tuxedo, it begged the question: What's the occasion?

Related products on Amazon:

• Books on Logic
• Books on Rhetoric