casuistic

[ kazh-oo-is-tik ]

adjective

1. pertaining to casuists or casuistry.
2. oversubtle; intellectually dishonest; sophistical:

   casuistic distinctions.

Other Words From

• cas·u·is·ti·cal·ly adverb
• non·cas·u·is·tic adjective
• non·cas·u·is·ti·cal adjective
• non·cas·u·is·ti·cal·ly adverb
• o·ver·cas·u·is·tic adjective
• o·ver·cas·u·is·ti·cal adjective
• o·ver·cas·u·is·ti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of casuistic¹

First recorded in 1650–60; casuist + -ic

Example Sentences

The Jansenists, however, endeavored to meet the Papal condemnation with casuistic subtlety.

From Project Gutenberg

In a spirit of reverence they followed the recital of the Haggadah, as the patriarch intoned in a feeble but impressive voice, the queer, outlandish, Talmudic, and casuistic interpretations of the festival.

From Project Gutenberg

The casuistic, practical, individualistic ethics of Confucius were radically changed to general principles of ideal conduct, with the addition of æsthetic elements, and a strong emphasis laid on group loyalty rather than on filial piety.

From Project Gutenberg

Now the casuistic and argumentative element becomes more prominent; the dramatic aspect retires into the background, the philosophical teacher advances.

From Project Gutenberg

Nietzsche in one of his earliest works examines Wagner's theory and amplifies it by a rather casuistic interpretation of the evolution of art.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bogus
• deceitful
• dishonest
• distorted
• erroneous
• fake
• fanciful
• faulty
• fictitious
• fraudulent
• improper
• inaccurate
• incorrect
• invalid
• misleading
• mistaken
• phony
• specious
• spurious
• unfounded