fallacy Definition
- 1a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound argument
- 2a failure in reasoning that renders an argument invalid
Using fallacy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fallacy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The fallacy of his argument was quickly exposed.
Example
The idea that money can buy happiness is a fallacy.
Example
The notion that all politicians are corrupt is a fallacy.
Example
The fallacy of the slippery slope suggests that if we take one step, we will inevitably end up taking many more.
fallacy Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with fallacy
ad hominem fallacy
an argumentative strategy whereby genuine discussion of the topic at hand is avoided by instead attacking the character, motive, or other attribute of the person making the argument
Example
Instead of addressing the issue, he resorted to ad hominem fallacies.
an argumentative strategy whereby an opponent's position is misrepresented in order to make it easier to attack
Example
He used the straw man fallacy to make his opponent's argument seem ridiculous.
an argumentative strategy whereby only two options are presented as if they are the only possibilities, when in fact there are more
Example
The false dilemma fallacy is often used in politics to force people to choose between two undesirable options.
Origins of fallacy
from Latin 'fallacia', meaning 'deception'
Summary: fallacy in Brief
The term 'fallacy' [ˈfæləsi] refers to a mistaken belief or a failure in reasoning that renders an argument invalid. It encompasses ideas like the 'ad hominem fallacy,' where the argument avoids the topic and attacks the person, and the 'straw man fallacy,' where an opponent's position is misrepresented. The 'false dilemma fallacy' presents only two options as if they are the only possibilities. Examples include 'The fallacy of his argument was quickly exposed.' and 'The idea that money can buy happiness is a fallacy.'
