In predicate logic, universal quantification formalizes the notion that something (a logical predicate) is true for everything, or every relevant thing. It is usually denoted by the turned A (∀) logical operator symbol which is interpreted as "given any" or "for all", and which, when used together with a predicate variable, is called a universal quantifier. Universal quantification is distinct from existential quantification ("there exists"), which asserts that the property or relation holds for at least one member of the domain.
Quantification in general is covered in the article on quantification. Symbols are encoded U+2200 ∀ for all (HTML: ∀ ∀ as a mathematical symbol).
Read more about Universal Quantification: Basics, Universal Closure
Famous quotes containing the word universal:
“The philosopher is like a man fasting in the midst of universal intoxication. He alone perceives the illusion of which all creatures are the willing playthings; he is less duped than his neighbor by his own nature. He judges more sanely, he sees things as they are. It is in this that his liberty consists—in the ability to see clearly and soberly, in the power of mental record.”
—Henri-Frédéric Amiel (1821–1881)