Analytic/Synthetic Statements

A statement is said to be analytic when it is true in virtue of the subject of that statement. For instance, "a triangle has three side" is analytic because the concept triangle has three sides by definition.

A statement is synthetic when it amplifies the concept that it refers to. For instance, "triangles are green" is a synthetic statement because the concepts triangle and green are mutually exclusive (one doesn't contain the other).

See also The Analytic/Synthetic Distinction on Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.

» Glossary