protasis
Definition
- Noun (plural: protases):
- Linguistics: In grammar, "protasis" refers to the clause that expresses a condition in a conditional sentence. It is the "if" clause (or equivalent) that sets up the hypothetical situation, often contrasted with the "apodosis" (the result clause).
- Rhetoric: In classical rhetoric, "protasis" denotes the first part of a speech or argument, where the proposition or subject is introduced.
Usage Examples
Linguistics:
- In the sentence "If it rains, the picnic will be cancelled," the protasis is "If it rains." (The conditional clause stating the condition.)
- The protasis often begins with words like "if," "unless," or "provided that." (The clause that introduces the condition.)
Rhetoric:
- The speaker's protasis outlined the main argument before moving to the evidence. (The introductory part of the speech.)
Advanced Usage
"the protasis of a conditional": the specific clause that sets the condition.
- The protasis of a conditional sentence can be in the present or past tense, depending on the time frame of the condition. (The "if" clause can vary in tense.)
"protasis and apodosis": the two main parts of a conditional sentence.
- In logical terms, the protasis is the premise, and the apodosis is the conclusion. (The condition and its result.)
Variants and Related Words
- Protatic (adj): relating to or serving as a protasis.
- The protatic clause in this sentence is clearly marked by "if". (The clause functioning as the condition.)
- Apodosis (n): the main clause of a conditional sentence, expressing the result.
- In "If you study, you will pass," the apodosis is "you will pass". (The result clause.)
Synonyms
- Conditional clause: a clause that expresses a condition.
- If-clause: a common term for a protasis in everyday grammar.
Related Idioms
- "the protasis of the matter": (rare, formal) the initial premise or condition of a situation.
- Before we debate, let us clarify the protasis of the matter. (Let us first establish the condition or starting point.)