sophism

soph·ism

[sof-iz-uhm]
noun
1.
a specious argument for displaying ingenuity in reasoning or for deceiving someone.
2.
any false argument; fallacy.

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

an·ti·soph·ism, noun
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00:10
Sophism is always a great word to know.
So is lollapalooza. Does it mean:
an extraordinary or unusual thing, person, or event; an exceptional example or instance.
a children's mummer's parade, as on the Fourth of July, with prizes for the best costumes.
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World English Dictionary
sophism (ˈsɒfɪzəm) [Click for IPA pronunciation guide]
 
n
Compare paralogism an instance of sophistry
 
[C14: from Latin sophisma, from Greek: ingenious trick, from sophizesthai to use clever deceit, from sophos wise, clever]

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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Word Origin & History

sophism
c.1350, "specious but fallacious argument," from O.Fr. sophime "a fallacy, false argument," from L. sophisma, from Gk. sophisma "sophism, clever device," from sophizesthai "become wise" (see sophist).
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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