Distinction without a difference

For the album by Billy Bang, see Distinction Without a Difference (album).

A distinction without a difference is a type of logical fallacy where an author or speaker attempts to describe a distinction between two things where no discernible difference exists.^[1] It is particularly used when a word or phrase has connotations associated with it that one party to an argument prefers to avoid.

For example, a person might say "I did not lie; I merely stretched the truth a little bit."^[2]

Form of the fallacy

• Claim X is made where the truth of the claim requires a distinct difference between A and B.
• There is no distinct difference between A and B.
• Therefore, claim X is incorrectly claimed to be true.

Example

In the following conversation:

• Sergio: There is no way I would ever even consider taking dancing lessons.
• Kitty: How about I ask my friend from work to teach you?
• Sergio: If you know someone who is willing to teach me how to dance, then I am willing to learn, sure.^[3]

Sergio's fallacy is thinking that being taught by someone is different than taking a lesson.

See also

• Connotation
• Connotation (semiotics)
• Distancing language
• Euphemism
• False dilemma
• Spin (propaganda)