Here's how it works:
* A definition should be precise and cover all possible cases.
* A counterexample is an example that fits the description of the definition but does not actually belong to the thing being defined.
Example:
Statement: "A square is a shape with four sides."
Counterexample: A rectangle also has four sides, but it's not a square.
Why it's a counterexample: The statement describes a property shared by both squares and rectangles, so it doesn't accurately define a square.
Here are some ways to find counterexamples:
* Think of exceptions: Can you imagine situations where the definition wouldn't hold true?
* Try different examples: Test the definition with various examples, especially ones that might seem like they should fit but don't.
* Look for overlaps: Does the definition include things that shouldn't be included?
* Consider the opposite: Could you define the opposite of what you're trying to define, and is that definition accurate?
By finding a counterexample, you demonstrate that the original statement is not a good definition because it doesn't accurately capture the specific characteristics of the thing being defined.