##  [Method of Minimal Counterexample](/method-minimal-counterexample) 

  ##  [Method of Minimal Counterexample](https://mathlogic.quantumdictionary.io/method-minimal-counterexample-0) 

  

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**Mathematics & Logic Dictionary**

 







 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

Definition

A proof-by-contradiction strategy that assumes there exists a smallest (minimal) counterexample to a universal statement with respect to a chosen well-founded measure, and then derives a contradiction by producing an even smaller counterexample or showing the minimal object must satisfy the statement.