sentential function

noun

UK /sɛnˈtɛnʃəl ˈfʌŋkʃən/

US /sɛnˈtɛnʃəl ˈfʌŋkʃən/

A sentence with a blank spot that becomes true or false when you fill it in.

In logic class, we treated '___ is taller than Sam' as a sentential function and tested it with different names.

SYNONYMS

open sentence propositional function predicate expression sentence frame

RELATED WORDS

predicate variable quantifier proposition logic

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A statement whose truth depends on the value given to one or more variables.

The sentential function 'x + 2 = 5' is true only when x equals 3.

3. An expression containing free variables that forms a sentence once those variables are replaced.

Logicians use sentential functions to study how quantifiers like 'all' and 'some' work.

4. In grammar, a phrase or clause that can serve as a sentence or part of one.

The teacher asked students to identify each sentential function in the paragraph.