Counterfact

/ˈkaʊntərfækt/ noun

Definition

Something that is contrary to or contradicts a stated fact; an opposite or opposing fact.

Etymology

From counter- + fact (from Latin factum, meaning 'deed' or 'thing done'). Often used in philosophical discussions of hypothetical situations.

Kelly Says

Counterfacts are what philosophers and scientists use to imagine alternate histories—asking 'what if the counterfact were true instead?' helps us understand why things happened the way they did.

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