spurious
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “spurious” mean?
adjective.not being what it purports to be; false or fake.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in contexts relating to deception, authenticity, or the evaluation of evidence, particularly in scientific or historical discussions. It emphasizes the idea of misleading appearances or claims, distinguishing it from similar terms like "false," which may not carry the same implication of intentionality or deceit.
Common Confusions
Spurious implies deception or a false appearance, while false usually suggests a lack of truth or accuracy without the same connotation of intentional misleading.
Do not choose spurious if the context emphasizes authenticity or truthfulness rather than something that is not being what it purports to be; false or fake.
Example Sentences
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His spurious reasoning did not hold up under examination.
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His argument was spurious and had no validity.