Definition

In a way that seems true or correct but is actually false or misleading.

Example

The argument was presented speciously, making it difficult to see the flaws in the reasoning.

Conversation

I can't believe he tried to convince us of that speciously crafted argument.

Right? It sounded convincing at first, but then I saw the flaws.

Exactly! It’s frustrating how people can be so misleading.

Totally. We need to stay sharp and question everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Speciously → It is formed from "specious" (from Latin *speciosus*, meaning attractive or having a pleasing appearance) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "speciously" means in a manner that appears to be true or correct but is actually misleading or deceptive.

Memory Tip

Think of something that looks 'attractive' or 'pleasing' ('specious') but is actually misleading — that's what it means to do something 'speciously'.

Visually Confused Words