Bogus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
bogus
[หboสษกษs ]
Definitions
not real
Not genuine or true; fake. Something that is bogus is not real or genuine, often used to describe something that is deceptive or misleading.
Synonyms
counterfeit, fake, false, fraudulent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bogus |
Used informally to describe something that is not real or genuine, often in a dismissive or skeptical manner.
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| fake |
Broadly used to describe anything that is not genuine, ranging from emotions to products, and often carries a negative connotation.
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| false |
Used to describe something that is incorrect or untrue, particularly related to statements, beliefs, or information.
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| counterfeit |
Typically refers to something made in imitation with the intent to deceive, commonly used for money, documents, or branded goods.
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| fraudulent |
Refers to actions or schemes that are deceitful and intended to result in financial or personal gain, often used in legal or formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- That website is full of bogus information.
- She tried to sell me a bogus painting claiming it was an original.
- Don't believe everything he says, he's known for spreading bogus rumors.
not valid
Not valid or legal. Something that is bogus in this context means it is not acceptable or not meeting the necessary requirements.
Synonyms
illegitimate, invalid, unacceptable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bogus |
Used when describing something that is fake or not real.
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| invalid |
Used to describe something that is not valid due to some error or lack of official recognition.
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| illegitimate |
Used to describe something that is not legally valid or acceptable.
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| unacceptable |
Used to convey that something is not satisfactory or is not allowed.
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Examples of usage
- The contract turned out to be bogus and was declared null and void.
- The company was fined for submitting bogus documents to the authorities.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- 'Bogus' became a popular term in the 1990s, especially thanks to movies like 'Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure,' where it was used to dismiss something as lame.
- In the realm of internet culture, 'bogus' is frequently used to describe misleading news or fake information.
- Musicians in the hip-hop genre have also captured the essence of the term, often calling out fake personas or fraudulent behavior in their lyrics.
Psychology
- Understanding the difference between truth and deception is crucial in psychology, as accepting 'bogus' claims can affect decision-making.
- Cognitive biases, such as the โillusion of truth,โ can lead people to believe 'bogus' information when they hear it repeatedly.
- Victims of scams often refer to the schemes as 'bogus,' highlighting the emotional impact of such deceptions.
Literature
- Various authors have used 'bogus' to critique societal norms and expose fraudulent behavior, particularly in satirical works.
- Mark Twain's writings also delve into themes of authenticity and deception, resonating with the essence of calling something 'bogus.'
- In childrenโs literature, 'bogus' is sometimes used to represent fantastical characters that need to be distinguished from real heroes.
Legal
- In legal terminology, 'bogus' is often used to describe fake documents or false claims submitted in court.
- Fraud is sometimes described as 'bogus' when discussing financial scams or identity theft cases.
- Law enforcement agencies frequently investigate 'bogus' operations that deceive consumers through false advertising.
Origin of 'bogus'
Main points about word origin
- The origin of 'bogus' is unclear, but it likely comes from a slang word used in the 19th century for a counterfeit or imitation.
- One theory suggests it may derive from a machine called 'bogus', which was used to make fake money.
- It first appeared in American English around the 1860s, often in the context of deception.
The word 'bogus' originated in the early 19th century, possibly from the slang term 'bogusman' used to describe a counterfeiter. It has since evolved to describe anything that is fake, false, or not genuine.