erroneous reasoning

USAGE SUMMARY

"erroneous reasoning" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a conclusion or argument that is logically incorrect. For example, "His erroneous reasoning led him to believe that he could fly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Britannica

The New York Times

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Fallacy, in logic, erroneous reasoning that has the appearance of soundness.

Britannica

The Connecticut study, conducted by John Donohue, a Stanford law professor, completely dispels this erroneous reasoning.

The New York Times

In the analysis of the posed problems, the participants map the level of their own notions and concepts, understanding, and various interpretations and realize possible misconceptions and erroneous reasoning (Tichá and Hošpesová 2009).

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In a letter, dated 20 July, Mr Larkin concluded the tribunal's approach to evidence was erroneous, its reasoning was flawed and that the decision was "riddled with errors".

BBC

But Mr Larkin concluded the tribunal's approach to evidence was erroneous, its reasoning was flawed and that the decision was "riddled with errors".

BBC

H.P. insists that such reasoning is erroneous.

The New York Times

Just like your Uncle Max, public intellectuals often have the bad habit of spouting off on subjects they know little about; cannot stop themselves from offering erroneous predictions; lack the fundamental reasoning skills to construct or understand an argument; and have little or no influence on events or even public opinion.

The New York Times - Books

This mode of reasoning leads to erroneous evaluations, which are sometimes in contradiction with elementary probabilistic properties [ 23].

BMC Medical Research Methodology

By all means, processing speed, short-term memory, and long-term storage/retrieval are necessary in order for the brain to effectively "reasoning fluidly". However, it is erroneous to describe fluid reasoning as consisting of these abilities alone.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In late March, the Supreme Court threw out a lower court's ruling backing the plan, calling the reasoning behind the decision "legally erroneous". For the North Carolina case, civil rights groups argued that Republican lawmakers drew districts after the 2010 census with the intent of marginalizing Democratic-leaning black voters.

HuffPost

These studies led to erroneous conclusions, overlooking how successful, heuristic based reasoning can be [17].

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing formal arguments or logical proofs, using "erroneous reasoning" can precisely pinpoint the flaw in the thinking process.

Common error

Avoid using "erroneous reasoning" simply because someone lacks information. "Erroneous reasoning" implies a flaw in the logic itself, not just an absence of data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "erroneous reasoning" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes the quality of a reasoning process being flawed or incorrect, as evidenced by Ludwig and its examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "erroneous reasoning" is a noun phrase used to denote flawed or incorrect thinking. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, though its frequency is relatively rare. Its use is best suited for formal contexts, particularly in academic, scientific or journalistic discourse where precision is key. When using the phrase, ensure it reflects a genuine flaw in logic rather than a mere lack of information. Consider alternatives like "flawed logic" or "incorrect rationale" to adjust the nuance as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fallacious reasoning

Implies deception or misleading nature in the reasoning, suggesting a deliberate attempt to mislead or a hidden flaw.

flawed logic

Highlights the presence of defects or imperfections in the logical structure itself.

incorrect rationale

Focuses on the inaccuracy of the underlying reasons or justifications.

unsound logic

Suggests a lack of robustness or validity in the logical process.

faulty deduction

Emphasizes an error in the process of drawing conclusions from premises.

invalid reasoning

Emphasizes the lack of legal or logical force behind the reasoning.

specious reasoning

Suggests that the reasoning appears correct but is actually false or misleading.

mistaken inference

Focuses on the error made in drawing a conclusion based on available evidence.

defective reasoning

Highlights that the ability to use reason has been damaged in some way, which may be temporary or permanent.

illogical thought

Emphasizes the lack of coherence or rationality in the thought process.

FAQs

How can I use "erroneous reasoning" in a sentence?

You can use "erroneous reasoning" to describe a flawed argument or conclusion, such as, "The politician's "erroneous reasoning" led to a disastrous policy decision".

What's the difference between "erroneous reasoning" and "fallacious reasoning"?

"Erroneous reasoning" generally means incorrect or mistaken reasoning, while "fallacious reasoning" implies a deceptive or misleading element in the reasoning. "Fallacious reasoning" often involves specific logical fallacies.

What can I say instead of "erroneous reasoning"?

Alternatives include "flawed logic", "incorrect rationale", or "unsound logic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "erroneous reasoning" a formal or informal phrase?

"Erroneous reasoning" is generally considered a formal phrase suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic contexts. Less formal alternatives might include "wrong thinking" or "muddled logic".