Word of the Day: SOPHISTRY

Subtle but fallacious reasoning

sophistry (noun) - a seemingly sound or plausible position or argument crafted to deceive; an intentional fallacy (also sophism) [sof-uh-stre]

BREAKDOWN: SOPH- (knowledge) + -ISTRY (art or practice)

• a sophist is someone who uses clever, confusing, or illogical arguments to deceive

See also: sophomoric

“Men of great conversational powers almost universally practice a sort of lively sophistry and exaggeration which deceives for the moment both themselves and their auditors.” —Thomas B. Macaulay

[Fun Word Friday introduces more advanced or technical words that are based on word roots. Yes, these words may still be tested on standardized exams. Try to use this word in a sentence today!]