non sequitur
The term 'non sequitur' comes from Latin, meaning 'it does not follow,' and is used to describe statements or conclusions that do not logically follow from previous statements.
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Definition
C1Logic and Philosophy
(technical, academic)A conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the premises.
Example
- Claiming that it will rain because you forgot your umbrella is a non sequitur.
B2Conversation
(informal)A remark that seems unrelated to the previous topic or statement.
Example
- When asked about his weekend, he replied with a non sequitur about his favorite book.
B2Humor
(informal)A type of joke where the punchline is unrelated to the setup, creating a humorous effect.
Example
- The comedian's non sequitur about penguins had the audience in stitches.