false equivalence

American  

[fawls i-kwiv-uh-luhns] / ˈfɔls ɪˈkwɪv ə ləns /

noun

1. a logical fallacy in which one assumes or asserts that two things are the same or equal when, while alike in some ways, they are not sufficiently similar to be considered equivalent.

---

Etymology

Origin of false equivalence

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

This interpretation, however, rests on a false equivalence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

Dr Bączyk-Bell said the process had been a "facetious charade" and it was a "false equivalence" to talk about hurt caused to those who had been theologically opposed to the idea of marriage equality.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026

“How refreshing it is to hear clear and morally sound statements that do not create a false equivalence or call for addressing ‘both sides,’” Mr. Smotrich said.

From New York Times • Dec. 3, 2024

His advice for other editors: “I think the false equivalence has got to go, because that’s not what this is anymore.”

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2024

The other side of that is false equivalence, which is saying like, “Oh, you have clinical depression? Everyone gets sad.”

From Slate • Sep. 20, 2022