modus ponens

 
Pronunciation: /ˌməʊdəs ˈpəʊnɛnz/

noun

  • the rule of logic which states that if a conditional statement (‘if p then q’) is accepted, and the antecedent (p) holds, then the consequent (q) may be inferred.
  • an argument using the rule of modus ponens.

Origin:

Latin, literally 'mood that affirms'