To cite as evidence or proof in an argument or discussion. To bring forward or present as support for a position.
From Latin 'adducere' where 'ad-' (to, toward) + 'ducere' (to lead) meant 'to lead toward' or 'to bring to.' The word entered English in the 15th century directly from Latin, maintaining its legal and rhetorical sense of leading evidence toward a conclusion.
When you 'adduce' evidence, you're literally 'leading it toward' your argument! This legal and academic term shows how the Romans thought about evidence as something you guide or conduct to support your case. It's related to 'educate' and 'introduce' — all involve purposeful leading.
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