logical
Meaning
based on or using clear, sound reasoning
following the rules of formal logic
reasonable and sensible; to be expected
Structure
Usage
it seemed the only logical conclusion based on the evidence.
the programmer had a very logical approach to solving the problem.
there is a logical progression from one chapter to the next in the textbook.
Etymology
the word 'logical' has its conceptual roots in ancient greek philosophy, specifically in the term 'logos', which encompassed a wide range of meanings including word, speech, reason, principle, and rational account. the greek suffix '-ikos' was added to form 'logikos', meaning "pertaining to reason or discourse." this term was later adopted into latin as 'logicalis'. the journey into english, via old french, layered on the latin adjectival suffix '-alis' (becoming '-al' in english), reinforcing its descriptive function. thus, the modern english 'logical' directly inherits this lineage, describing something that is in accordance with or characterized by the principles of sound reasoning derived from 'logos'.
Analysis
log (from greek 'logos', meaning word, reason, principle, discourse); ic (from greek '-ikos', forming adjectives meaning "of or pertaining to"); al (from latin '-alis', forming adjectives meaning "of the kind of, pertaining to")