"post hoc" (Latin)

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What does the Latin term post hoc mean?

"Post hoc" is a Latin term that translates to "after this" or "afterward" in English. It refers to a logical fallacy known as "post hoc ergo propter hoc," which means "after this, therefore because of this." The fallacy occurs when one assumes that a preceding event or action is the cause of a subsequent event or outcome solely based on the temporal sequence, without considering other possible factors or evidence.

Examples in Sentences

Here are three example sentences:

• Just because the rooster crows before sunrise does not mean that the crowing caused the sun to rise; it is a classic example of post hoc reasoning.
• She attributed her success in the exam to wearing a particular pair of socks, but that's a post hoc conclusion since there is no evidence to support a causal relationship.
• After taking a new supplement, he noticed an improvement in his energy levels. However, assuming that the supplement caused the improvement without considering other lifestyle changes would be a post hoc assumption.

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