Maths WorkshopMaths problems with full solutions
Exercise 562Logic, sets and proofs › Quantifiers and negationHigh schoolAdded 3 Nov 2026

Summary of quantifiers and negation

#summary#quantifiers#negation

Statement

Summarize the key facts about quantifiers.

Hint

Review definitions, negation rules, and order.

Show solutionHide solution

Solution

Definitions.
- ∀x, P(x)\forall x,\ P(x): PP holds for all xx.
- ∃x, P(x)\exists x,\ P(x): some xx satisfies PP.
- ∃!x, P(x)\exists! x,\ P(x): exactly one xx satisfies PP.

Negation.
- ¬∀x, P(x)≡∃x, ¬P(x)\neg\forall x,\ P(x)\equiv\exists x,\ \neg P(x).
- ¬∃x, P(x)≡∀x, ¬P(x)\neg\exists x,\ P(x)\equiv\forall x,\ \neg P(x).
- ¬∃!x, P(x)\neg\exists!x,\ P(x): no xx or at least two xx satisfy PP.

Order. ∀∃\forall\exists does not imply ∃∀\exists\forall in general.

Vacuous truth. ∀x∈∅, P(x)\forall x\in\emptyset,\ P(x) is true.

Conclusion. Quantifiers are the backbone of mathematical statements; negation and order are critical for correct reasoning.