Adhyāropāpavāda | The Method/Theory of Prior Superimposition and Subsequent Denial

Adhyaropapavada

Adhyāropāpavāda (IAST)
Translation: "the method or theory of prior superimposition and subsequent denial"

A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy
Sanskrit: अध्यारोपापवाद
Transliteration: Adhyāropāpavāda
Translation: "the method or theory of prior superimposition and subsequent denial"
Definition:

1. By this method, one first superimposes illusory attributes on an attribute-less entity and then subsequently denies or removes them. This technique is used by Advaita Vedānta to lead an aspirant to the knowledge of the non-dual Self (Ātman).

Reference:

1. Grimes, John (1996). A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy: Sanskrit Terms Defined in English. Albany: State University of New York Press