false dichotomy

[ fawls dahy-kot-uh-mee ]

noun

1. a logical fallacy in which a spectrum of possible options is misrepresented as an either-or choice between two mutually exclusive things.

Word History and Origins

Origin of false dichotomy¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

Perhaps if he spent more time studying and less time bashing students, he would know that this is what logicians call a false dichotomy.

From Salon

But this approach creates a false dichotomy between “big” and “small” business that misunderstands the way the startup ecosystem works.

From Los Angeles Times

"Delhi's incredibly rich past has contributed to its evolution as a unique city. To pitch it against progress or development is a false dichotomy," says historian Sohail Hashmi.

From BBC

But this is a dangerous, false dichotomy that must be rejected.

From Seattle Times

For 58-year-old Orinda resident Diana Honig, Richmond’s resolution presented a “false dichotomy between being ‘pro-Palestinian’ or ‘standing with Israel.’

From Los Angeles Times