Mc 4: Logic Supplemental Materials

Prepared by JOHN C. MIRASOL, PhD

The Terms

Exposition

The Comprehension of Terms

The comprehension of a term (Cruz, 1995) is the sum total of all notes (the elements that comprise the
significance of an idea) which constitute the meaning of a concept.
For example: Man is described as an animal, a rational, living body, an organism, a sentient, material
substance, and a being. All these notes (descriptions) constitute the comprehension of “man.”
The comprehension include not only the necessary elements or notes that make up its essence but also
all the elements or notes deducible from its essential notes. For instance, some deducible elements from “man”
are man’s ability to talk, to walk, and to live with others.
Remember: the more specific is the term, the greater is the comprehension.

The Extension of Terms

The extension of a term is the sum total of the particulars to which the comprehension of a concept can
be applied.
For example: Man is a rational animal. Rational animal is the comprehension of the term man while the
particular or individual persons in whom the element of “rationality” and “animality” are found and can be
applied to such as Jose, Leo, Mary Ann, Laura are the extensions of man.
Remember: the more specific is the term, the lesser is the extension.

Relationship of the Comprehension and extension of Terms

The comprehension and extension of terms are related to each other inversely. In other words, the
greater is the comprehension of a term, the lesser is its extension, and vice-versa.