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sophistry

noun/ˈsɑfɪstri/

the use of fallacious arguments, especially with the intention of deceiving

The politician’s speech was filled with sophistry, as he twisted the facts to mislead the audience.

fallacydeceptionmisleading argument
word origin — From Latin 'sophistria', from Greek 'sophistia', derived from 'sophistēs' meaning 'a wise man or teacher'

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 61

Set 61 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: sophistry, indigence, odium, armistice, posterity. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. sophistry · noun/ˈsɑfɪstri/

    the use of fallacious arguments, especially with the intention of deceiving

    The politician’s speech was filled with sophistry, as he twisted the facts to mislead the audience.

    Synonyms: fallacy, deception, misleading argument

    Origin: From Latin 'sophistria', from Greek 'sophistia', derived from 'sophistēs' meaning 'a wise man or teacher'

  2. indigence · noun/ˈɪn.də.dʒəns/

    a state of extreme poverty or lacking basic necessities

    The charity focuses on alleviating the indigence of families living in urban areas through various support programs.

    Synonyms: impoverishment, destitution, poverty

    Origin: from Latin 'indigentia', from 'indigens' meaning 'needy' or 'to be in want'

  3. odium · noun/ˈoʊ.di.əm/

    general or widespread hatred or disgust incurred by someone as a result of their actions

    The politician faced widespread odium after the scandal was revealed, alienating many of his supporters.

    Synonyms: aversion, hatred, contempt

    Origin: Latin 'odium', meaning 'hatred' or 'aversion'.

  4. armistice · noun/ˈɑr.mɪ.stɪs/

    a formal agreement to stop fighting in a war

    After months of brutal fighting, both sides finally agreed to an armistice to end the conflict.

    Synonyms: truce, ceasefire, peace treaty

    Origin: From Middle French 'armistice', from 'arme' (weapon) + 'stice' (standing), derived from Latin 'stare' (to stand).

  5. posterity · noun/pɑˈstɛr.ɪ.ti/

    future generations of people

    The sacrifices made by our ancestors have paved the way for a better life for posterity.

    Synonyms: descendants, offspring, future generations

    Origin: from Latin 'posteritas', from 'posterus' meaning 'coming after'