particular negative proposition

logic

Also known as: O proposition

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July 1, 2026

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In logic, a particular negative proposition asserts that a specific attribute is absent from some members of a class. This is one of the four basic forms of categorical propositions, represented by the letter 'O' in traditional logic. An example would be "Some students are not athletes."1

This contrasts with a universal negative proposition, which denies something of all members of a class, such as "No birds are mammals." The study of logic, including different types of propositions, was systematically developed by Aristotle in his works known as the Organon.23

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history of logic
Categorical forms
” Particular negative: “Some β is not an α.” Indefinite affirmative: “β is an α.” Indefinite negative: “β is not an α.” Singular affirmative: “x is an α,” where “x” refers to only one individual (e.g., “Socrates is an animal”). Singular negative: “x is not an…
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” Particular negative: “Some β is not an α.” Indefinite affirmative: “β is an α.” Indefinite negative: “β is not an α.” Singular affirmative: “x is an α,” where “x” refers to only one individual (e.g., “Socrates is an animal”). Singular negative: “x is not an…
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