Illogical vs. Logical — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 28, 2024
Illogical actions defy reasoning, often contradicting established principles, while logical actions are based on coherent reasoning, adhering to a structured thought process.
Difference Between Illogical and Logical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Illogical thinking or actions are characterized by a lack of sensible or reasonable justification. They often contradict established rules or principles of logic. Whereas logical thinking or actions are grounded in clear, rational reasoning and adhere to specific, established rules or principles that guide thought processes and decision-making.
Illogical arguments may seem disconnected or irrelevant because they do not follow a clear, rational pattern that can be universally understood. On the other hand, logical arguments are structured in a way that each step or conclusion follows from the previous one in a coherent and predictable manner.
In the realm of problem-solving, illogical approaches might ignore relevant information or make jumps in reasoning that are not supported by evidence. Conversely, logical approaches methodically consider all relevant information and make connections between ideas based on evidence and reasoned argumentation.
Illogical decisions can often lead to unexpected or undesired outcomes because they do not account for all variables or possible consequences. Logical decisions, however, are made with an understanding of potential outcomes and are designed to achieve a specific goal or solve a specific problem with the highest probability of success.
Illogical thought processes can sometimes lead to creative or unconventional solutions that logical processes might overlook, due to their adherence to established patterns and norms. Logical thought processes, while potentially less creative, ensure consistency and reliability in outcomes by following established rules of reasoning.
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Comparison Chart
Basis
Absence of reason
Presence of coherent reasoning
Argument Structure
Disconnected, contradictory
Coherent, consistent
Decision-Making
Unpredictable, may ignore relevant information
Methodical, considers all relevant info
Outcomes
Unexpected or undesired
Predictable, aimed at specific goals
Creativity
Can lead to unconventional solutions
Focuses on reliability and consistency
Compare with Definitions
Illogical
Exhibiting erratic or unpredictable behavior or reasoning.
The plot of the movie was illogical, with characters making bizarre decisions.
Logical
Characterized by clear, sound reasoning.
His decision to wait for more information was logical and prudent.
Illogical
Ignoring logical structures in argumentation.
Her speech was compelling but illogical, lacking in evidence and coherence.
Logical
Making use of rational and consistent reasoning.
Logical thinking is essential in scientific research to draw valid conclusions.
Illogical
Contradicting established principles of logic.
His argument was illogical, full of inconsistencies and unfounded assertions.
Logical
Resulting from clear and ordered thinking.
The conclusion she reached was logical, given the evidence presented.
Illogical
Lacking sense or clear, sound reasoning.
An illogical conclusion often leaves the audience confused and questioning.
Logical
Pertaining to or according to the rules of logic or formal argument.
A logical argument is compelling because it is structured and coherent.
Illogical
Making decisions based on incomplete or irrelevant information.
Choosing to hike during a storm warning was an illogical decision.
Logical
Based on known statements or events or conditions.
It's logical to assume that heavy rain can cause flooding in prone areas.
Illogical
Contradicting or disregarding the principles of logic.
Logical
Of, relating to, in accordance with, or of the nature of logic
Logical disputation.
Illogical
Without logic; senseless.
Logical
Based on earlier or otherwise known statements, events, or conditions; reasonable
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year.
Illogical
Contrary to logic; lacking sense or sound reasoning.
I received an illogical reply and that left me standing there feeling confused.
Logical
Reasoning or capable of reasoning in a clear and consistent manner
A very logical person.
Illogical
Ignorant or negligent of the rules of logic or correct reasoning; as, an illogical disputant; contrary of the rules of logic or sound reasoning; as, an illogical inference.
Logical
(not comparable) In agreement with the principles of logic.
Illogical
Lacking in correct logical relation
Logical
Reasonable.
Illogical
Lacking orderly continuity;
A confused set of instructions
A confused dream about the end of the world
Disconnected fragments of a story
Scattered thoughts
Logical
(not comparable) Of or pertaining to logic.
It's not logical, it's God!
Logical
(computing) Relating to the conceptual model of a system rather than its physical expression
Logical memory appears contiguous to an application program, but may well be stored on several physical devices, including in RAM and on hard-disks, as determined by the operating system.
Logical
Of or pertaining to logic; used in logic; as, logical subtilties.
Logical
According to the rules of logic; as, a logical argument or inference; the reasoning is logical; a logical argument; a logical impossibility.
Logical
Skilled in logic; versed in the art of thinking and reasoning; as, he is a logical thinker.
Logical
Capable of or reflecting the capability for correct and valid reasoning;
A logical mind
Logical
In accordance with reason or logic;
A logical conclusion
Logical
Marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts;
A logical argument
The orderly presentation
Logical
Based on known statements or events or conditions;
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year
Logical
Capable of thinking and expressing yourself in a clear and consistent manner;
A lucid thinker
She was more coherent than she had been just after the accident
Common Curiosities
Can illogical thinking lead to innovation?
Yes, illogical thinking can lead to creative or unconventional solutions that logical thinking might not consider.
Why is logical thinking important?
Logical thinking is crucial for making reasoned decisions, solving problems effectively, and understanding complex situations clearly.
Can an illogical argument be convincing?
Yes, illogical arguments can sometimes be convincing if they appeal to emotions or biases, despite lacking rational foundation.
Can everyone be logical?
Everyone has the capacity for logical thinking, but developing this skill requires practice and learning.
Are emotions illogical?
Emotions themselves are not illogical, but decisions based solely on emotions without considering rational factors can be.
What role does evidence play in logical reasoning?
Evidence is crucial in logical reasoning as it supports premises and conclusions, making an argument more convincing.
What does illogical mean?
Illogical refers to thinking or reasoning that lacks sense, is contradictory, or does not adhere to established principles of logic.
Is logic always the best approach to problem-solving?
While logic is often effective, some problems may benefit from creative or intuitive approaches that do not strictly follow logical reasoning.
How does logic relate to mathematics?
Logic is foundational to mathematics, providing the framework for constructing proofs and solving problems systematically.
What is an example of logical reasoning?
Logical reasoning involves drawing a conclusion based on a series of premises that are logically connected, such as deductive reasoning.
How can you identify an illogical argument?
An illogical argument often contains contradictions, lacks evidence, or does not follow a coherent pattern of reasoning.
How does culture affect perceptions of logic?
Cultural norms and values can influence what is considered logical or illogical in different contexts.
What is a logical fallacy?
A logical fallacy is an error in reasoning that weakens an argument, often through irrelevant or misleading premises.
Can logic be subjective?
The principles of logic are objective, but their application can be subjective depending on interpretation and context.
Is it possible to be too logical?
Over-reliance on logic can sometimes overlook emotional, ethical, or contextual factors important in decision-making.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
