sophistry

[ sof-uh-stree ]

noun

, plural soph·ist·ries.

1. a subtle, tricky, superficially plausible, but generally fallacious method of reasoning.
2. a false argument; sophism.

sophistry

/ ˈsɒfɪstrɪ /

noun

1. 1. a method of argument that is seemingly plausible though actually invalid and misleading
   2. the art of using such arguments
2. subtle but unsound or fallacious reasoning
3. an instance of this; sophism

Other Words From

• anti·sophist·ry noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sophistry¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English sophistrie, (from Middle French ), equivalent to sophistre “sophist” ( sophister ) + -ie -y ³, from Medieval Latin sophistria , from Latin sophista, sophistes; sophist ( def )

Example Sentences

"In New York, Engoron has used strident language in rejecting Trump’s legal positions, terming them 'pure sophistry, 'risible,' 'bogus arguments and 'egregious' in his summary judgment opinion," Conway wrote.

From Salon

Those who object to right-wing sophistry and racist tropes are attacked as advocates of "cancel culture" that disrespects freedom of speech and practices censorship.

From Salon

All we have today is sophistry promoted by ideologues who have produced absolutely no evidence despite three years of trying.

From Los Angeles Times

This kind of sophistry is exactly what led to the inexorable collapse of the NCAA’s authority.

From Washington Post

And as if that weren't enough, they are also planning to re-run one of the great moments in "If he's for it, I'm against it" foreign policy sophistry of the past quarter-century.

From Salon