- In logic, a quantifier is an operator that specifies how many individuals in the domain of discourse satisfy an open formula. For instance, the universal quantifier ∀ in the first order formula ∀xP(x) expresses that everything in the domain satisfies the property denoted by P. On the other hand, the existential quantifier ∃ in the formula ∃xP(x) expresses that there exists something in the domain which satisfies that property. A formula where a quantifier takes widest scope is called a quantified formula. A quantified formula must contain a bound variable and a subformula specifying a property of the referent of that variable.
- Existential quantification (Wikipedia)
In predicate logic, an existential quantification is a type of quantifier, a logical constant which is interpreted as “there exists”, “there is at least one”, or “for some”. It is usually denoted by the logical operator symbol ∃, which, when used together with a predicate variable, is called an existential quantifier (“∃x” or “∃(x)” or “(∃x)”). Existential quantification is distinct from universal quantification (“for all”), which asserts that the property or relation holds for all members of the domain. Some sources use the term existentialization to refer to existential quantification.
- Universal quantification (Wikipedia)
In mathematical logic, a universal quantification is a type of quantifier, a logical constant which is interpreted as “given any”, “for all”, or “for any”. It expresses that a predicate can be satisfied by every member of a domain of discourse. In other words, it is the predication of a property or relation to every member of the domain. It asserts that a predicate within the scope of a universal quantifier is true of every value of a predicate variable.