Fallacy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fallacy
[ˈfæləsi ]
Definition
logical reasoning
A fallacy is a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound arguments. It is an incorrect argument in logic and rhetoric which may appear to be correct, but is not. Fallacies are often used in debates and arguments to deceive or manipulate others.
Synonyms
deception, error, misconception.
Examples of usage
- His argument was full of fallacies and did not hold up to scrutiny.
- She used the fallacy of appeal to authority to try to convince the audience.
- The politician's speech was riddled with fallacies and inaccuracies.
- The most common fallacy is the slippery slope argument.
- Be aware of the fallacy of composition, where what is true for parts may not be true for the whole.
Translations
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Origin of 'fallacy'
The word 'fallacy' originated from the Latin word 'fallacia', meaning deceit or trick. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe false or misleading reasoning. The study of fallacies has been a fundamental part of logic and critical thinking, aiming to help people identify and avoid faulty arguments.
See also: downfall, fall, fallback, fallen, falling, fallout.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranked #11,955, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.
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