Affirmatio

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Affirmatio

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Acting as if a point has already been questioned, challenged or disputed.

Example

I would answer any questions about this by saying: just look at the evidence. It is overwhelming and indisputable.

This is the right way. There is no alternative.

Discussion

Affirmatio is a pre-emptive method of avoiding challenge that acts as if a point has been questioned. If someone does challenge the point you can then look confused and say 'I thought I have already addressed that'. It may well also prevent people from challenging as they realize that this conflict could arise.

Classification: Reasoning