specious

Definition

Seemingly well-reasoned, plausible or true, but actually fallacious.

Etymology

From Middle English speciose, specious, from Anglo-Norman specious, Middle French specieux, and their etymon Latin speciōsus (“good-looking”).

Example Sentences

• "This idea that we must see through what we have started is specious, however good it may sound."
• "now to the discourse itself, voluble enough, and full of sentence, but that, for the most part, either specious rather than solid, or to his cause nothing pertinent."
• "I have frequently amused myself both in public and private companies, with silently remarking, the specious errors of those who speak without reflecting."

Related Words