special pleading

noun

1. Law. pleading that alleges special or new matter in avoidance of the allegations made by the opposite side.
2. pleading or arguing that ignores unfavorable features of a case.

special pleading

noun

1. a pleading that alleges new facts that offset those put forward by the other side rather than directly admitting or denying those facts
2. a pleading that emphasizes the favourable aspects of a case while omitting the unfavourable

Word History and Origins

Origin of special pleading¹

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

“We’re here defending democracy. I found the special pleading for sportsmen quite sickening.”

From Seattle Times

He said that complaints about the show’s accuracy were “special pleading” from royalists.

From New York Times

At the time, Applegate, an actress with an aversion to special pleading, didn’t make excuses.

From New York Times

Barnes captures the language of adoration with exquisite poise, the devoted student’s endless cycle of qualifications and special pleading.

From Washington Post

Like that earlier piece, Bowles employs exaggeration and special pleading to make her case.

From Los Angeles Times