English Lexicon

Discursively

/dɪˈskɜː.sɪv.li/
adverbCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #28450 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adverb
  1. 1

    In a way that passes from one topic to another without strict order; ramblingly or desultorily.

    "The professor spoke discursively, touching upon literature, philosophy, and history before finally reaching his main point."
  2. 2

    By means of analytical reasoning or logical discourse rather than direct intuition.

    "The philosopher argued discursively, building his ethical framework step by logical step."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the adjective discursive, originating in the early 17th century from Late Latin discursivus, based on Latin discurrere meaning 'to run about or scatter'. Over time, it evolved from signifying mental wandering to characterizing speech or writing that covers a wide range of topics or proceeds by reasoning rather than intuition.

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