false dichotomy

American  

[fawls dahy-kot-uh-mee] / ˈfɔls daɪˈkɒt ə mi /

noun

1. a logical fallacy in which a spectrum of possible options is misrepresented as an either-or choice between two mutually exclusive things.

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Etymology

Origin of false dichotomy

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

Perhaps if he spent more time studying and less time bashing students, he would know that this is what logicians call a false dichotomy.

From Salon • Oct. 23, 2024

"Delhi's incredibly rich past has contributed to its evolution as a unique city. To pitch it against progress or development is a false dichotomy," says historian Sohail Hashmi.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2024

Despite how developers might want to frame it, it is a false dichotomy to suggest we can either have equitable tree distribution or affordable housing.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 14, 2023

One is a false dichotomy, or false dilemma.

From Scientific American • Mar. 13, 2023

But calling Cal-Mex food anything but Mexican created a false dichotomy that has plagued it for the last couple of generations.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2022