sophism

[ sof-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. a specious argument for displaying ingenuity in reasoning or for deceiving someone.
2. any false argument; fallacy.

sophism

/ ˈsɒfɪzəm /

noun

1. See paralogism
   an instance of sophistry Compare paralogism

Other Words From

• anti·sophism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sophism¹

1300–50; < Latin sophisma sophistry < Greek sóphisma originally, acquired skill, method, derivative of sophízesthai to act the sophist, become wise; replacing earlier sophim, Middle English < Middle French sophime < Latin

Word History and Origins

Origin of sophism¹

C14: from Latin sophisma, from Greek: ingenious trick, from sophizesthai to use clever deceit, from sophos wise, clever

Example Sentences

The vagaries of sophism in the English-speaking world were hardly less prolific than in Continental Europe.

From Project Gutenberg

The conclusion must naturally follow from the premises, otherwise the syllogism is invalid and constitutes a fallacy or sophism.

From Project Gutenberg

But then it is a sophism to argue from thence that this immunity is the cause of my delight either on these or on any occasions.

From Project Gutenberg

The sophism which I am here combating will not stand the test of progression, which is the touchstone of principles.

From Project Gutenberg

In the course of the next joint debate at Jonesboro', Mr. Lincoln easily disposed of this sophism by showing: 1.

From Project Gutenberg