logical
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɒdʒɪkəl/
US
- /ˈlɑdʒɪkəl/
Description
- Reasonable
- Sensible
- Consistent
- Based on facts
Being logical means thinking in a clear, reasonable way, using facts and evidence to come to conclusions. It's like building with blocks: each piece of information fits neatly with the next to create something solid. A detective uses logic to solve crimes by carefully piecing together clues. If someone says, "It's logical to wear a coat when it's cold," they mean it makes sense in that situation. Sometimes, even though something feels right, it isn't logical, like believing you can fly just because you dream about it.
The word "logical" describes something that follows the rules of reason and good sense. It is about thinking in a structured way where conclusions are based on evidence rather than emotions or guesswork. A logical argument is one where the premises—the starting points—support the conclusion, making it believable and sound.
You might describe a person as "logical" if they approach problems with a calm, analytical mind, carefully considering all the facts before making a decision. For example: "She's very logical; she always weighs the pros and cons." You can also describe a situation as being logical, such as: "It's logical to save money for emergencies."
Logic isn't just about being smart; it's about how you think. It is a cornerstone of fields like mathematics, science, philosophy, and computer programming, where precise reasoning is essential. However, logic is just as useful in everyday life, from deciding which route to take to work to resolving conflicts with friends.
Sometimes we use the word "illogical" to describe something that doesn't make sense or defies reason. For example: "It's illogical to expect a plant to grow without water." While emotions and intuition are important parts of the human experience, relying solely on them can lead to illogical decisions. When you want to ensure your thinking is sound and well-supported, strive for logic!
Examples
- 1
Instructions
The instructions are clear and logical, so the machine is easy to use.
- 2
Travel planning
The logical thing to do is call the hotel before we leave.
- 3
Travel decision
If the roads are closed, it seems logical to take the train.
- 4
Plausible answer
Her answer sounded logical, but some of the facts were wrong.
- 5
File organization
We arranged the files in a logical order, from newest to oldest.
- 6
Leadership choice
After the manager quit, Ana was the logical choice to lead the team.
- 7
Cause and effect
It's logical that prices rise when there are fewer products to buy.
- 8
Argument outcome
If you take his argument to its logical conclusion, the company should close every small office.
Pattern
take X to its logical conclusion
follow an idea until you reach its final result
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- logicaladjective