Difference Between Adduce, Deduce, and Deduct

Here we will learn about the words adduce, deduce, and deduct. These words look and sound similar, but they have different meanings. Let’s find out more about each word.

Adduce

Adduce means to bring forward or offer something as proof. This word comes from the Latin word adducere, which means “to lead to or bring forward.” When you adduce something, you are giving reasons or examples to support what you are saying.

Here are some examples:

• He adduced evidence to show he was telling the truth.
• The lawyer adduced the witness’s statement in court.
• She adduced several facts to support her argument.
• They adduced the new data to explain their findings.
• My teacher adduced examples from the book to explain the lesson.

Deduce

Deduce means to figure something out by thinking. This word comes from the Latin word deducere, which means “to lead away or to infer.” When you deduce something, you draw a conclusion based on information or evidence.

Here are some examples:

• From the clues, Sherlock Holmes deduced who the thief was.
• We can deduce that she is unhappy because she is crying.
• The scientist deduced that the earth goes around the sun.
• By looking at the footprints, the ranger deduced that a bear had passed by.
• He deduced the solution from the given facts.

Deduct

Deduct means to take away or subtract. This word comes from the Latin word deducere, which means “to lead away or subtract.” When you deduct something, you are removing part of it.

Here are some examples:

• They will deduct the cost from your salary.
• If you pay early, they will deduct 5% from the total bill.
• You can deduct expenses like travel from your taxes.
• They deduct money for insurance from my paycheck.
• The teacher will deduct points for every mistake.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is a simple trick to remember the difference:

• Adduce means to add evidence or examples.
• Deduce means to figure out or conclude.
• Deduct means to subtract or take away.

Summary

In summary, adduce means to offer proof, deduce means to find out by thinking, and deduct means to take away. These words sound alike, but they have different uses. Remember these simple tips to use the right word at the right time.