counterexample

noun

coun·​ter·​ex·​am·​ple ˈkau̇n-tər-ig-ˌzam-pəl How to pronounce counterexample (audio)
: an example that refutes or disproves a proposition or theory

Examples of counterexample in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The debate over whether and how to reopen schools in the United States offers a useful counterexample. Jacob Leibenluft, Foreign Affairs, 19 Aug. 2020 To those who subscribe to the pleasing shibboleth that the truth will always come out, Remy has delivered a disturbing counterexample. Lawrence Douglas, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2017 But the recent actions of Russia — where population decline is only slightly slower than in Ukraine — provide a powerful counterexample to that theory, not to mention the rising tensions and territorial conflicts in fast graying East Asia. Joshua Keating, Vox, 18 June 2024 Of course, gut feeling and a lack of counterexamples don't constitute a proof. Jack Murtagh, Scientific American, 22 Dec. 2023 See all Example Sentences for counterexample 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'counterexample.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1809, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of counterexample was in 1809

Dictionary Entries Near counterexample

Cite this Entry

“Counterexample.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/counterexample. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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