valid
Say it: VAL-id /ˈvalɪd/ · adjective
What “valid” means
An argument whose starting claims guarantee its conclusion, true or false.
More precisely: In logic, describing an argument whose conclusion must follow from its premises, even if those premises are false.
When to use it
In logic, when checking whether a conclusion follows from the starting claims, separately from whether those claims are true.
It can also mean
In everyday use, it can mean reasonable, acceptable or officially recognised.
Similar words
logically consistent, well-formed
Where it comes from
From Latin validus, 'strong'.
Quick check
All umbrellas sing; this is an umbrella; therefore it sings. The reasoning follows, despite the false starting claim. It is…
sound or valid?
Show the answer
valid
Learn 5 new words a day in Kinquire. Each with a picture, how to say it, an example and a quick check, then spaced review so you actually keep them. Free to start.
Learn “valid”