Singular term

In scholastic logic, a singular term is of such a nature that it may be predicated of one subject only (aptus natus est praedicari de uno solo). Note the qualification "of such a nature". The common term 'moon of Earth' applies only to one object, because Earth has only one moon. But Earth could have had more than one moon, and that term would apply to each of them, because 'moon' is naturally suited to apply to more than one thing. The term 'Aristotle', by contrast, can only apply in the same sense to one individual.

Singular terms include proper names such as 'Socrates', demonstrative pronouns such as 'this' or 'that', or a demonstrative pronouns with a common term, such as 'this person', 'that person'. Definite descriptions such as 'the moon' or 'the present prime minister' are usually not considered singular for the reason given above.

See also

• Common term
• Singular proposition
• Supposition