When a conclusion is assumed not because it is probably true, but because it is possible that it is true or it has not been demonstrated to be impossible , no matter how improbable.
Examples:
- Brittany: I haven’t applied to any other schools besides Harvard. Casey: You think that is a good idea? After all, you only have a 2.0 GPA, your SAT scores were pretty bad, and frankly, most people think you are not playing with a full deck. Brittany: Are you telling me that it is impossible for me to get in? Casey: Not impossible, but... Brittany: Then shut your trap.