false premise

[ fawls prem-is ]

noun

1. Logic. an incorrect proposition that, by forming the basis of an argument, will almost certainly lead to an invalid or logically unsound conclusion.
2. a lie, such as one deliberately established to support a conclusion or inference that obscures the truth:

   By devising the elaborate false premise of her inability to walk, the thief avoided suspicion for the burglaries in her building.

Word History and Origins

Origin of false premise¹

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

What about Saddam and his supposed weapons of mass destruction, the false premise on which the Iraq war was launched?

From The Daily Beast

He would not argue from a false premise, or be deceived himself or deceive others by a false conclusion.

From Project Gutenberg

I have said earlier in this chapter that the charge against Thackeray of cynicism was one that was founded on a false premise.

From Project Gutenberg

No system of government can stand that lacks public confidence and no progress can be made on the assumption of a false premise.

From Project Gutenberg

The theory, indeed, was really a safeguard, though built on a false premise.

From Project Gutenberg

Most of the errors of dietary scientists grow out of a false premise as to the natural state of man.

From Project Gutenberg