Sophistry
/ˈsɒf.ɪ.stri/noun
The use of fallacious arguments, especially with the intention of deceiving.
Did you know?The roots of 'sophistry' trace back to ancient Greece, where the Sophists were both revered and reviled for their cunning arguments and manipulation of truth.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
σοφιστής (sophistēs)
“A master of wisdom or knowledge, often with a connotation of cunning or trickery.”
5th Century BCE
Greek
σοφισμός (sophismós)
“A clever but deceptive argument used to persuade or mislead.”
Late Latin
Latin
sophistria
“The practice or art of deceptive reasoning.”
Middle English
Middle English
sophistrie
“A term referring to the art of using fallacious reasoning.”
Modern English
English
sophistry
“The practice of using misleading arguments, especially in a rhetorical context.”
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