Blog 21

non sequitur (plural non sequiturs)

1. (logic) An invalid argument; one in which the conclusion cannot be logically deduced from the premises.

   The argument "All ravens are black; this object is black; therefore, this object is a raven" is a non sequitur.

2. Any abrupt and inexplicable transition or occurrence.

   Having a costumed superhero abduct the vicar was an utter non sequitur in the novel.

3. (humor) A kind of pun that uses a change of word, subject, or meaning to make a joke of the listener's expectation:

   "Take my wife - please." -- Henny Youngman

   "If all the girls who attended the Yale prom were laid end to end, I wouldn't be a bit surprised." -- Dorothy Parker

   "A fool and his money are soon partying." -- Steven Wright