Ignoratio Elenchi
/ɪɡˌnɒrɑːʃioʊ ɪˈlɛnki/
Definitions
- (n.) A logical fallacy in legal argumentation where an irrelevant conclusion is presented, failing to address the issue in dispute.
The lawyer’s argument was dismissed due to ignoratio elenchi, as it diverted from the central legal question.
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Commentary
Use this term to identify when an argument fails logically by addressing a point that does not resolve the actual dispute, a common pitfall in legal pleadings and oral arguments.
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