Contingential

/ˌkɑntɪnˈdʒɛnʃəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characterized by contingence; dependent on uncertain or chance circumstances.

Etymology

From contingence + -ial (suffix). A formal philosophical term that emphasizes the quality of being contingent on external factors.

Kelly Says

This is the adjective form philosophers prefer when they want to sound maximally technical—'contingential truths' are things that happen to be true but could have been false, unlike necessary truths that couldn't be otherwise.

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