3 Fallacies of Ambiguity

what are (Fallacies of Ambiguity)

The argument manipulates meaning, grammar, or emphasis to hide a flaw in reasoning

Equivocation

occurs when a single word is used in two or more distinct senses within the same argument, as if its meaning remained the same. The conclusion depends on a shift in definition

Amphiboly

arises from ambiguous grammar, phrasing, or sentence structure that causes multiple possible interpretations. The argument takes advantage of this confusion to draw a misleading or invalid conclusion

Accent

manipulates meaning by changing vocal stress, written emphasis, or selective quotation to shift interpretation. The same words may suggest different conclusions depending on what is emphasized

Composition

assumes that what is true of individual parts must also be true of the whole they form. The shift in reasoning moves from the part to the whole without justification.

Division

assumes that what is true of a whole must also be true of each of its parts. It moves from the group to the individual without proving that the properties apply at both levels

Hypostatization (a.k.a. Reification)

treats an abstract concept as if it were a concrete, physical, or personal thing. It falsely gives real-world attributes (like agency, actions, or decisions) to something that is not an actual entity

False Precision

uses exact numbers or measurements to give the appearance of accuracy where none exists. It creates a false sense of certainty or authority. The precision is unjustified by the data or context

Quoting Out of Context

removes a statement from its surrounding material in order to change its meaning. It relies on selective presentation that alters the intended point. The quote becomes misleading without its original frame