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

Example Sentences

His whole paper is an ignoratio elenchi, and he doesn't touch a single one of my positions.

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To prove this is an ignoratio elenchi; what the Sophist undertakes to prove is that Achilles will never overtake it, and he really proves that Achilles passes it between the 111th and 112th yards.

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The ignoratio elenchi is in his own mind.

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Mr. Mill had better be cautious in talking about ignoratio elenchi.

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An ignoratio elenchi more flagrant—a mistaking of the question more palpable—it is surely not possible to conceive.

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