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Enthymeme is a rhetorical device that reaches a conclusion on the truth of its contrary. Explore enthymeme examples for a better understanding of this figure of speech.

Enthymeme Examples

Enthymeme is one of the most frequently used rhetorical devices in English language that have been in vogue ever since the time of Aristotle. Also called as rhetorical syllogism, this technique employs subtle art of persuasion to engage one's emotions, reasoning, and morals by virtue of rhetoric. It is an informally stated reasoning that deliberately omits one part of the deduction - the premise or the conclusion - and is often based on probabilities, examples, signs or indications. Usually the conclusions are not explicit and at times, it might tax your ability to figure out the hidden connotation behind it. The usage of enthymemes is extensive in humor and is commonly employed in advertorials. All said and done, enthymemes aren't always inexplicit. At times there are major assumptions written largely over it. Enthymeme was first used in Standard English sometime during the early part of 19th century and is still prominently used in our day-to-day life. In simple terms, enthymeme is just an incomplete syllogism. Explore the list of enthymeme examples to gain a deeper understanding on this.

Examples Of Enthymeme

Enthymeme Examples In Literature
Statement: "If the glove doesn't fit, you must acquit." - Attorney Johnny Cochran in the O.J. Simpson trial
Description: The glove doesn't fit the defendant.
The glove is evidence.
Therefore, you must acquit the defendant

Statement: 'He must be a socialist because he favors a graduated income-tax.'
Description: He is a socialist
He favors a graduated income-tax.
Assumption: Either anyone who favors a graduated income-tax is a socialist or a socialist is anyone who favors a graduated income-tax

Other Examples:
Enthymeme Examples Advertising
Enthymeme Examples Aristotle
The word 'enthymeme' is derived from the Latin word 'enth?mema' and from the Greek 'enthumema'. An argumentative statement is said to contain a conclusion and one supposition where the supposition is to be implied. Enthymeme examples are more common in literature than social talks. Usage of the enthymemes are an instrument for slightly minimizing and yet pointing out some assertion in the way of omitting conclusion. It makes the reader work out an own conclusion and nudges him further to read on to get a clear picture of his premise.