Vocabulary Spotlight
Categorical
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Absolute, explicit, or relating to categories without exceptions or conditions.
“The judge issued a categorical denial of all allegations.”
Pronunciation
[kat-uh-GOR-ih-kuhl]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Unconditional
Definite
Explicit
Certain
Antonyms
Conditional
Vague
Uncertain
Equivocal
Related Words
Categorize
Categorically
Word Origin
“Categorical” derives from the Greek katēgoria, meaning “to accuse” or “assert,” later used in philosophy to define types or categories, entering English in the 16th century.
Word Family
Adjective: Categorical – Explicit and without exceptions.
Adverb: Categorically – In a manner that is clear and absolute.
Verb: Categorize – To arrange by category.
Mnemonics
Remember “Cat” + “gorical” – think of “absolute clarity” like separating things into clear categories.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In legal contexts, a “categorical” statement is one made with complete certainty, without exceptions.
Philosophy
In philosophy, “categorical imperatives” are absolute, universal rules that must be followed.
Data Science
Categorical data refers to information sorted into discrete groups, without overlap or ambiguity.
In Context
Categorical statements are often used when expressing strong or absolute opinions, judgments, or directives, leaving no room for interpretation or ambiguity.