ignoratio elenchi

[ig-nuh-rey-shee-oh i-leng-kahy, -kee]

noun

Logic.

1. the fallacy of offering proof irrelevant to the proposition in question.

ignoratio elenchi

/ ˌɪɡnəˈreɪʃɪəʊ ɪˈlɛŋkaɪ /

noun

1. a purported refutation of a proposition that does not in fact prove it false but merely establishes a related but strictly irrelevant proposition

2. the fallacy of arguing in this way

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignoratio elenchi¹

1580–90; < Latin ignōrātiō elenchī literally, ignorance of the refutation; elenchus

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignoratio elenchi¹

Latin: an ignorance of proof, translating Greek elenchou agnoia