Counterexample

Definition of Counterexample

• Counterexample is an example that is used to disprove a statement.

Examples of Counterexample

• 'The opposite of a number is always positive.'

Counterexample: The opposite of 2 is - 2, a negative number.

 

Solved Example on Counterexample

Which of the following is a counterexample of the statement, "The perimeter of a rectangle can never be an odd number"?

Choices:

A. Length of a rectangle is 3.25 in. and width is

5.25 in.

B. Length of a rectangle is 10 in. and width is 7 in.

C. Length of a rectangle is 6.5 in. and width is 4.5 in.

D. Length of a rectangle is 9 in. and width is 5 in.

Correct Answer: A

Solution:

Step 1: The counterexample that disproves the given statement is:

'Length of a rectangle is 3.25 in. and width is 5.25 in.'

Related Terms for Counterexample

• Statement

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