反証

• Reading: はんしょう
• Romaji: hanshō
• Kanji breakdown: 反 (han/so-) — counter, against; 証 (shō/akashi) — evidence, proof, certificate
• Pronunciation: /ha.ɴ.ɕoː/

Meaning

Counter-evidence; disproof; evidence or argument that contradicts or refutes a claim, hypothesis, or proposition.

A noun (also suru-verb) central to scientific epistemology and legal discourse. The philosopher Karl Popper argued that 反証可能性 (falsifiability) is the defining criterion of a scientific hypothesis. In legal proceedings, 反証 is evidence presented to rebut the opposing side's case. Contrasted with 立証 (proof, verification). 反証主義 (falsificationism) is a key concept in philosophy of science.

Examples

1. その仮説に対する反証が相次いで報告され、理論の根本的な見直しが迫られた。 Counter-evidence against that hypothesis was reported one after another, forcing a fundamental reexamination of the theory.
2. ポパーは科学的命題は反証可能でなければならないという基準を提唱した。 Popper proposed the criterion that scientific propositions must be falsifiable.
3. 弁護側は検察の主張を崩す決定的な反証を法廷に提出した。 The defense submitted decisive counter-evidence in court that undermined the prosecution's claims.

Usage Guide

Context: science, philosophy, law, academic writing, debate

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 反 (han — against, counter) and 証 (shō — evidence, proof). Together they form a straightforward compound meaning 'evidence against [a claim]'.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Academic and professional

Social background: Professional