Specious
hardSPEE-shus
adjective
Definition
Superficially plausible but actually wrong; misleading
Examples
“The specious argument fooled many people.”
“His specious reasoning couldn't withstand scrutiny.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Specious is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "fallacious" or "sophistic" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "valid".
Related GRE Words
fallacious
Based on a mistaken belief or unsound argument
erroneous
Wrong; incorrect; based on error
bogus
Not genuine or true; fake
counterfeit
Made in imitation with intent to deceive; forged; fake
fraudulent
Obtained, done by, or involving deception; dishonest
apocryphal
Of doubtful authenticity; widely circulated but probably untrue
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