Spuriously: meaning, definitions and examples

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spuriously

[ˈspjʊərɪəsli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a deceptive or false manner

In a way that is not genuine or true, especially in order to deceive someone.

Synonyms

deceptively, falsely, fraudulently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spuriously	This is used to describe something that appears to be true or genuine but is actually not. It often refers to arguments, data, or claims that lack true validity. The scientist's spuriously convincing data was later debunked She made a spuriously logical argument that fell apart under scrutiny
falsely	Use this when discussing something that is incorrect or untrue. It often pertains to accusations, statements, or beliefs. He was falsely accused of the crime The information was falsely reported by the news
deceptively	This suggests that something gives a false impression, often intentionally, and can seem different than it actually is. It can apply to appearances, behavior, or situations. The house looked deceptively small from the outside, but inside it was very spacious Her deceptively friendly manner hid her true intentions
fraudulently	This term is used in legal and ethical contexts, indicating actions or behaviors intended to deceive or cheat, often for personal gain. It carries strong negative connotations. He was arrested for fraudulently obtaining credit card information The company was accused of fraudulently misrepresenting its earnings

Examples of usage

He was accused of spuriously claiming to be a doctor.
The evidence was spuriously manipulated to support their argument.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

without justification

In a manner lacking a valid reason or basis.

Synonyms

baselessly, unjustifiably, unreasonably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spuriously	Used when something is false or deceitful He claimed spuriously that the document was authentic
unjustifiably	Used when something cannot be justified or explained reasonably The company was criticized for unjustifiably high prices
baselessly	Used when a statement or claim has no evidence or foundation She was accused baselessly of the crime
unreasonably	Used when something lacks rationality or common sense He reacted unreasonably to the small mistake

Examples of usage

The decision to terminate his employment was spuriously made without any evidence.
She was spuriously accused of theft without any proof.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'spurious' comes from the Latin 'spurius,' which means 'illegitimate' or 'false.'
Originally used in reference to children born out of wedlock, the term evolved into a descriptor for anything fake or deceitful.
The related word 'spuriousness' reflects the quality of being false or misleading, often used in academic contexts.

Science

In scientific research, results can be classified as spuriously significant if they appear to represent a meaningful effect but arise due to random chance.
Spurious correlations can occur when two variables seem related but are actually both influenced by a hidden third variable.
Understanding spurious data is crucial in fields like epidemiology to avoid misinterpretation of research findings.

Literature

Literary critics have examined texts that portray characters leading spuriously deceptive lives, revealing deeper truths about human nature.
The theme of deception, often portrayed through spurious motives, can be found in works by authors like Shakespeare and Dostoevsky.
In modern literature, spurious narratives challenge readers to discern reality in a world filled with misinformation.

Pop Culture

In movies and television, characters frequently embody spurious identities, creating tension as they attempt to deceive others.
Reality TV often emphasizes spuriously constructed scenarios to increase drama, leading audiences to question the authenticity of what they see.
Social media platforms can be breeding grounds for spurious claims, with misinformation spreading quickly and influencing public opinion.

Psychology

Cognitive biases can lead individuals to accept spuriously supported claims, as people often seek information confirming their existing beliefs.
The phenomenon of 'confirmation bias' illustrates how humans are prone to gravitate towards spurious explanations that align with their views.
Understanding psychological factors behind spurious reasoning is essential for fostering critical thinking and effective decision-making.

Translations

Translations of the word "spuriously" in other languages:

🇵🇹 falsamente

🇮🇳 झूठा

🇩🇪 fälschlicherweise

🇮🇩 palsu

🇺🇦 хибно

🇵🇱 fałszywie

🇯🇵 偽りに

🇫🇷 faussement

🇪🇸 falsamente

🇹🇷 yanlış bir şekilde

🇰🇷 거짓으로

🇸🇦 زورًا

🇨🇿 nepravdivě

🇸🇰 nepravdivo

🇨🇳 虚假地

🇸🇮 nepravilno

🇮🇸 falslega

🇰🇿 жалған

🇬🇪 ყალბად

🇦🇿 yalançı

🇲🇽 falsamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,322, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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36319 replacer
36320 percussionist
36321 pseudoscience
36322 spuriously
36323 dishearten
36324 impiously
36325 eloping
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