Lixiang

Equivocation

The fallacy of equivocation occurs when the conclusion of an argument depends on the fact that a word or phrase is used, either explicitly, or implicitly, in two different senses in argument. Such arguments are either invalid or have a false premise, and in either case they are unsound. Examples:

Some triangles are obtuse. Whatever is obtuse is ignorant. Therefore, some triangles are ignorant.

Any law can be repealed by the legislative authority. But the law of gravity is a law. Therefore, the law of gravity can be repealed by the legislative authority.

We have a duty to do what is right. We have a right to speak out in defense of the innocent. Therefore, we have a duty to speak out in defense of the innocent.

A mouse is an animal. Therefore, a large mouse is a large animal.

In the first argument "obtuse" is used in two different senses. In the first premise it describes a certain kind of angle, while in the second it means dull or stupid. The second argument equivocates on the word "law." In the first premise it means statutory law, and in the second