Gish Galloping

/ˈɡɪʃ ˈɡæl.ə.pɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A rhetorical tactic involving overwhelming an opponent with numerous arguments or points, regardless of their accuracy or relevance, to distract or confuse.
    The lawyer’s use of gish galloping obscured the main issues in the trial by raising many irrelevant points.

Commentary

Common in legal debates and advocacy where overwhelming opposing counsel with excessive points may confuse fact-finding or dilute key arguments.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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