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What is the fallacy for the deliberate use of big words to confuse the audience?Hi, I've tried sifting through the hundreds of fallacies, but I haven't managed to find the one I'm looking for. Perhaps I skipped over it. I'm looking for the fallacy of using a big/uncommon vocabulary in order to gain credibility, or confuse others who don't know the meaning of the words. Thank you! Wishez |
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asked on Sunday, Jul 19, 2020 11:51:42 PM by Bo Bennett, PhD | ||||
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answered on Monday, Jul 20, 2020 05:22:31 AM by TrappedPrior (RotE) | |
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Perhaps the use of an expanded vocabulary was not INTENDED as a tactic, but simply commonplace to the user? In which case, there would be NO fallacy at play. I would need to see an example, in context, to make a fair determination. It is also easy to find oneself out of their element or comfort zone when highly-specialized jargon is employed; for example, I have been reviewing an unusual number of studies by virologists and other medical specialists of late, and the logisms they employ are very difficult for a layperson to assimilate. Could you provide an example of the obtuse language you question? |
answered on Monday, Jul 20, 2020 11:58:39 AM by Citizen Irrelevant | |
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This would be argument by gibberish I believe. Edit : actually I've been talked out of it above. Just using words other people don't know isn't a fallacy. |
answered on Monday, Jul 20, 2020 08:16:37 AM by Bryan | |
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Word Salad fallacy. |
answered on Thursday, Jul 23, 2020 08:17:24 PM by Jason Mathias | |
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I think you're looking for Proof by Verbosity/Fallacy of Intimidation. From what I understand the definition of the fallacy would include the deliberate use of complex or obscure wording to make a claim difficult to understand.
You do still have to be mindful of context since some people just habitually talk a certain way, ramble or don't know they need to explain the term. If you're willing to give them the benefit of the doubt about their intentions, pointing out the issue and asking them to explain themselves in a more accessible manner would be a good idea. |
answered on Saturday, Jul 25, 2020 06:28:53 PM by Night | |
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