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fallacy

Pronunciation: /ˈfaləsi/

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Definition of fallacy

noun (plural fallacies)

  • a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound arguments:the notion that the camera never lies is a fallacy
  • Logic a failure in reasoning which renders an argument invalid: Kraft exposes three fallacies in this approach
  • [mass noun] faulty reasoning:the potential for fallacy which lies behind the notion of self-esteem

Origin:

late 15th century (in the sense 'deception, guile'; gradually superseding Middle English fallace): from Latin fallacia, from fallax, fallac- 'deceiving', from fallere 'deceive'

fallacy in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of fallacy in the US English dictionary

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