Specious Meaning and Definition
Specious
Pronunciation
/ˈspiːʃəs/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Superficially attractive or appealing, but actually lacking in substance or value; seemingly true or convincing, but actually false or based on faulty reasoning.
Examples
- The politician’s specious arguments swayed many voters.
- The company’s specious claims of sustainability were later debunked.
Synonyms
- Superficial
- Misleading
- Deceptive
Antonyms
- Genuine
- Substantial
- Authentic
Additional Information
Specious refers to something that appears attractive or convincing on the surface, but lacks real value or depth. This term can be used to describe arguments, ideas, or objects that are superficially appealing but ultimately flawed. In everyday language, specious is often used to criticize or dismiss superficial or deceptive notions.
For instance, if someone claims that a product is environmentally friendly based on shallow evidence, their claims can be described as specious. Similarly, if a politician uses manipulative rhetoric to sway public opinion, their arguments can be considered specious.
It’s essential to note that specious can be subjective, as what one person considers superficial or deceptive might be viewed as genuine by another. However, in general, specious is used to describe claims or arguments that lack substantial evidence or reasoning.
Etymology
The word specious has Latin roots, originating from “speciosus,” meaning “good-looking” or “fine.” Over time, the term evolved to convey a sense of something being superficially attractive but lacking substance.
Usage Notes
When using specious, it’s essential to consider the context and the intended meaning. This term can be used in formal or informal settings, but it’s more commonly used in written or academic contexts to describe flawed arguments or ideas.
Cultural References
Specious has appeared in literature and popular culture, often used to describe fake or misleading information. In literature, authors like Shakespeare and Jane Austen have employed the term to critique societal norms or characters’ motivations.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Specious reasoning
- Specious arguments
- Specious claims
Related Words or Phrases
- Glib
- Dissembling
- Deceptive
Collocations
- Specious argument
- Specious claim
- Specious reasoning
Frequency of Use
Specious is not a commonly used word in everyday conversation, but it can be found in written texts, academic papers, and literary works. According to Google Ngram, the term has been steadily used since the 19th century, with a slight increase in usage in the 20th century.
Common Misspellings
- Spurious
- Species
- Speciousness