Etymological fallacy

An etymological fallacy is an argument of equivocation, arguing that a word is defined by its etymology, and that its customary usage is therefore incorrect.^[1][2]

History

Ancient Greeks believed that there was a "true meaning" of a word, distinct from common use. There is evidence that a similar belief existed among ancient Vedic scholars. In modern days, this fallacy can be found in some arguments of language purists.^[1]

Occurrence and examples

An etymological fallacy becomes possible when a word's meaning shifts over time from its original meaning. Such changes can include a narrowing or widening of scope or a change of connotation (amelioration or pejoration). In some cases, modern usage can shift to the point where the new meaning has no evident connection to its etymon.^{[examples needed][1]}

Antisemitism

The term antisemitism refers to anti-Jewish beliefs and practices.^[3][4][5] It replaced the earlier term Jew-hatred. The etymological fallacy arises when a speaker asserts its meaning is the one implied by the structure of the word—racism against any of the Semitic peoples.^[6][7]

See also

• False friends

• Folk etymology – Process of reinterpretive word formation

• Genetic fallacy – Fallacy where validity is determined by origin
• Informal fallacy – Form of incorrect argument in natural language
• Persuasive definition – Stipulative, biased definition of a term