spurious reasoning

[ˈspjʊriəs ˈriːzənɪŋ]
noun phrasepl: spurious reasoning (uncountable)
raciocínio espúrio
1. faulty or invalid logical argumentation that appears convincing but lacks a sound basis; reasoning that is deceptively plausible but fundamentally flawed
The politician's speech relied on spurious reasoning to persuade voters without presenting factual evidence.
O discurso do político baseou-se em raciocínio espúrio para persuadir eleitores sem apresentar evidências factuais.
2. logical fallacies or sophistry intended to mislead or confuse an audience
Her argument against the proposal was full of spurious reasoning and weak analogies.
Seu argumento contra a proposta estava repleto de raciocínio espúrio e analogias fracas.
The concept of spurious reasoning is particularly important in Brazilian and Portuguese academic traditions, where logical debate and philosophical rigor are highly valued. In the USA, the term is commonly used in legal, political, and educational contexts to critique weak arguments. Critical thinking skills and the ability to identify spurious reasoning are emphasized in modern education across both cultures.
NYC Slang
bogus logic / b.s. reasoning
Synonyms / Sinônimos
faulty reasoninginvalid logicsophistryflawed argumentationlogical fallacyspecious reasoning
Antonyms / Antônimos
sound reasoningvalid logicrigorous argumentationlogical consistencysolid evidence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
raciocínio espúrio
standard formal usage in academic and logical discourse
Brazil (informal)
argumentação furada / lógica furada
colloquial expression meaning 'flawed reasoning'
Portugal
raciocínio espúrio / argumentação falaciosa
similar to Brazilian Portuguese; 'falaciosa' emphasizes the fallacious nature
Academic contexts
paralogismo / sofisma
technical philosophical terms for deceptive reasoning

Related Words

fallacylogicargumentationdeceptionrhetoricsophistry

Related Idioms & Phrases

to wrap something in specious reasoning
to use smoke and mirrors
to pull the wool over someone's eyes
false reasoning
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