Spurious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something appears to be genuine but isn't, often referring to arguments, claims, or data.

• The scientist dismissed the spurious claims as unverified speculation.
• His spurious argument did not hold up under scrutiny.

Used in a variety of contexts to mean incorrect or untrue, often relating to statements, beliefs, or reports.

• The witness gave a false testimony.
• False information spread quickly on social media.

Informally used, often in everyday conversation or media, to describe something that is completely false or made up, like fake documents or stories.

• He was arrested for using a bogus passport.
• The email claiming you won a prize is completely bogus.

Commonly used to describe counterfeit items, imitations, or people pretending to be someone they're not. It's straightforward and widely understood.

• She bought a fake designer handbag.
• His smile seemed fake and insincere.

Applicable in legal or formal contexts, referring to deceitful actions, often involving financial gain or manipulative strategies.

• He was convicted of fraudulent activities.
• The company was fined for fraudulent advertising.

Typically used to describe claims, reports, or accusations that lack evidence or proof. It's formal and often used in serious contexts.

• The accusations against him were unsubstantiated.
• The rumor was dismissed as unsubstantiated gossip.

Use this word to describe something that lacks authenticity or validity and is not what it seems to be. Often used in a formal or academic context.

• The document was found to be spurious upon closer inspection

Use this word when something is intended to deceive or give a false impression. Commonly used in everyday language and discussions about appearances versus reality.

• The marketing campaign was deceptively presenting the product as more effective than it really was

Use this word in a more formal or academic context to describe ideas, arguments, or reasoning that is based on a mistaken belief or false logic.

• The theory was based on fallacious reasoning and was quickly debunked by experts

Use this word to describe an argument or reasoning that seems plausible on the surface but is actually wrong or deceptive. It's often used in formal writing and discussions.

• The politician's specious arguments were eventually exposed as false

Use this word for something that gives the wrong idea or impression, whether intentionally or unintentionally. It's a straightforward term commonly used in daily contexts.

• The statistic was misleading and did not represent the true state of affairs

Use this word to express doubt or suspicion about someone or something. Often implies reservations or lack of certainty.

• He made some dubious claims about his qualifications