Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lacking orderly continuity: Not following a clear, logical sequence; characterized by confusion or disconnectedness.
   • Lacking in correct logical relation: Contradicting the principles of logic or sound reasoning; not reasonable or rational.

Usage

The adjective "illogical" describes thoughts, arguments, statements, or situations that are not based on or do not follow proper logic. It implies a failure to connect ideas in a reasonable or coherent way. It is often used in formal, academic, or critical contexts to point out flaws in reasoning.

Examples

• Describing an argument or statement:
  • His conclusion was completely illogical, as it did not follow from the evidence presented.
  • It is illogical to assume that all politicians are dishonest.
• Describing thoughts or a narrative:
  • The plot of the movie was entertaining but ultimately illogical.
  • After the accident, her memories were scattered and illogical.

Advanced Usage

• "Illogical fear": An irrational fear that has no basis in reason or fact.
  • Her illogical fear of butterflies prevented her from enjoying the garden.
• "Illogical conclusion": A deduction or final decision that is not supported by the preceding reasoning.
  • The detective reached an illogical conclusion, ignoring the most obvious clue.

Variants and Related Words

• Illogically (adverb): In an illogical manner.
  • The report was illogically structured, making it hard to follow.
• Illogicality (noun): The quality or state of being illogical.
  • The illogicality of his plan was apparent to everyone.

Synonyms

• Irrational: Not based on logical reasoning or clear thinking.
• Unreasonable: Not guided by or based on good sense.
• Incoherent: Expressed in a confusing or unclear way; lacking logical connection.
• Fallacious: Based on a mistaken belief or unsound argument.

Antonyms

• Logical: Characterized by clear, sound reasoning.
• Rational: Based on or in accordance with reason or logic.
• Coherent: Logical and consistent; forming a unified whole.
• Reasonable: Having sound judgment; fair and sensible.

Idioms and Common Phrases

• "Fly in the face of logic": To be completely illogical or contrary to reason. (This phrase conveys a similar meaning to "illogical" but is more idiomatic.)
  • His decision to quit his stable job and travel with no savings flies in the face of logic.

Adjective

1. lacking orderly continuity
   • a confused set of instructions
   • a confused dream about the end of the world
   • disconnected fragments of a story
   • scattered thoughts
2. lacking in correct logical relation