casuistry

noun
UK: /ˈkæʒuɪstri/
US: /ˈkæʒuːɪstri/

  1. The use of clever but unsound reasoning, especially in relation to moral questions; sophistry.

    1. His argument was pure casuistry.
    2. The politician's speech was full of casuistry, avoiding the real issues with clever but misleading arguments.

  2. The resolving of specific cases of conscience, duty, or conduct through interpretations of ethical principles or religious doctrine.

    1. Casuistry helps to resolve moral dilemmas.
    2. Medieval casuistry provided guidance on complex moral questions arising from everyday life.

Synonyms

sophistry rationalization equivocation

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "casuistry" in English means: The use of clever but unsound reasoning, especially in relation to moral questions; sophistry., The resolving of specific cases of conscience, duty, or conduct through interpretations of ethical principles or religious doctrine..

The phonetic transcription of "casuistry" is /ˈkæʒuɪstri/ in British English and /ˈkæʒuːɪstri/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "casuistry": sophistry, rationalization, equivocation.

Example usage of "casuistry": "His argument was pure casuistry.". More examples on the page.