protases
Definition
- Noun (plural of ):
- Linguistics (Grammar): A "protasis" is the conditional clause in a conditional sentence (the "if" clause). In a sentence like "If it rains, the ground gets wet," the clause "If it rains" is the protasis. It expresses the condition upon which the main clause (the apodosis) depends.
Usage Examples
- (The conditional clause stating the condition.)
- (The clause that introduces the condition.)
Advanced Usage
- In Logic and Rhetoric: In formal logic or classical rhetoric, "protasis" refers to the first part of a conditional statement (the antecedent), which states the premise or hypothesis.
- The protasis of the argument "If A is true, then B is true" is "A is true." (The premise that sets up the logical condition.)
- In Literature: In ancient Greek drama, "protasis" sometimes describes the introductory part of a play where the plot is introduced, though this is a less common, technical use.
- The protasis of the tragedy established the central conflict. (The opening section that presents the initial situation.)
Variants and Related Words
- Protasis (singular noun): The word itself; the singular form of "protases."
- The protasis of the sentence is the "if" clause. (The single conditional clause.)
- Apodosis (noun): The main clause in a conditional sentence (the "then" clause), which contrasts with the protasis.
- In "If you call, I will come," the apodosis is "I will come." (The result clause that follows the condition.)
Synonyms
- Conditional clause: a clause that expresses a condition.
- Antecedent: in logic, the first part of a conditional statement.
Related Idioms