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Casuistry - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Casuistry is the use of clever but unsound reasoning to justify morally questionable actions, often by applying ethical principles in a misleading or overly subtle way.

casuistry

/ˈkæʒuɪstri/ /ˈkæzjuːɪstri/

Definition:

Sophisticated but misleading reasoning, often used to justify morally questionable actions.

Synonyms:

sophistry, quibbling, equivocation, speciousness

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

honesty, straightforwardness

Common Collocations:

moral casuistry, legal casuistry, religious casuistry

Derivatives:

casuist, casuistical

Usage Tips:

Use 'casuistry' to describe clever but deceptive arguments, especially in ethics or law.

Common Phrases:

empty casuistry, Jesuitical casuistry, political casuistry

Etymology:

Derived from Latin 'casus' (case), referring to case-based moral reasoning in theology and law.

Examples:

  • 1. His argument was pure casuistry, twisting facts to suit his agenda.
  • 2. The lawyer's casuistry convinced few but confused many in the courtroom.
  • 3. She saw through his moral casuistry and refused to be swayed.
  • 4. Religious debates often involve casuistry to justify controversial doctrines.

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