Fallacy

/ˈfæl.ə.si/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound arguments.

The fallacy that all dogs are dangerous can lead to irrational fears of friendly pets.

A failure in reasoning that renders an argument invalid.

The argument that we should not trust the scientific community due to a few past mistakes is a classic example of a fallacy.

An idea or belief that is false but is often mistaken for the truth.

The fallacy of appealing to tradition ignores the possibility of progress and improvement over time.

A deceptive or misleading notion.

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.

A clever lie or misleading argument.

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

A logical loophole used to deceive.

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