MEANING
A case that contradicts a general claim and shows that the claim is not universally true.
Use it for
testing generalizations; logical criticism; checking necessary conditionsChallenge an overgeneralization with a concrete case.
Words that belong together
- provide a counterexample
- decisive counterexample
- counterexample to a claim
On the page
A single accessible rural school is a counterexample to the claim that none exist.
The author treats an unusual case as a counterexample to a claim about averages.
Can you construct a counterexample in which the proposed rule gives the wrong result?
Nearby words
Related words
Word forms
- Base
- counterexample
Usage notes
Primary category: academic. One valid counterexample defeats a universal claim, but not necessarily a claim about tendencies or averages. Specify the proposition being challenged. Singular: counterexample; plural: counterexamples.
Practice this word in a sentenceYour margin notes
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