2006-08-18 05:36:02 · 4 answers · asked by Pey 7 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
The idea, if I understand it correctly, is that the exception to the rule only stands out so much *because* it is an exception. The exception wouldn't be noteworthy if it weren't an exception *to* something, and that something is the rule in question. The exception "proving" the rule is not in any way a scientific or mathematical proof, and is more applicable to subjective questions or observations.
2006-08-18 05:56:08 · answer #1 · answered by DavidK93 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Because "prove" has more than one meaning.
In science, prove means test. So an exception to a rule proves (tests) whether the rule is valid or not.
2006-08-18 05:45:11 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Silverbirch has the correct answer. I'm sure you've all heard of "proving grounds". These are test sites to prove that the car or whatever does what it is supposed to do. When you say, "I have proved the answer.", your are actually saying that you have tested the answer.
proof (plural proofs)
Singular: proof
Plural: proofs
Any effort, process, or operation designed to establish or discover a fact or truth; an act of testing; a test; a trial.
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/proof
For whatsoever mother wit or art Could work, he put in proof. -w:Spenser.
You shall have many proofs to show your skill. -w:Ford.
2006-08-18 18:48:48 · answer #3 · answered by wires 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Give David ten points. Can't be said better.
2006-08-18 07:39:09 · answer #4 · answered by helene_thygesen 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋