Meaning & Definition of word "Fallacy"

Fallacy

/ˈfæl.ə.si/

1. A mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound arguments.
- Example: The fallacy that all dogs are dangerous can lead to irrational fears of friendly pets.
2. A failure in reasoning that renders an argument invalid.
- Example: The argument that we should not trust the scientific community due to a few past mistakes is a classic example of a fallacy.
3. An idea or belief that is false but is often mistaken for the truth.
- Example: The fallacy of appealing to tradition ignores the possibility of progress and improvement over time.
4. A deceptive or misleading notion.
- Example: Believing that wealth guarantees happiness is a fallacy that many people fall into.

From Middle English fallacie, from Old French fallacie, from Latin fallacia, from fallax ('deceptive').

logical fallacy:

An error in reasoning that renders an argument invalid.

fallacy of composition:

The incorrect assumption that what is true for a part is also true for the whole.

fallacy of division:

The incorrect assumption that what is true for the whole is also true for its parts.

fallacious:

Based on a mistaken belief; misleading.

fallibility:

The tendency to make mistakes or be wrong.

fallibly:

In a manner that is prone to error.

Meaning: A clever lie or misleading argument.

Example Sentence: Don't fall for that fallacy; it's just a clever spin on the truth.

Meaning: A logical loophole used to deceive.

Example Sentence: His argument was just a fallacy; he was trying to loophole his way out of responsibility.