argumentum ad hominem

Definitions

A type of fallacious argument in which the attempt is made to refute a theory or belief by discrediting the person(s) who advocate that theory or belief; an ad hominem argument.

rhetoric

Equivalents

Examples

““He is an ass on two legs, the like⟳ of which was never seen before; so go home with your logic you old heathen vagabond, and teach⟳ your grandmother to milk the ducks!” The legend which we draw⟳ on, and which, never having been in print⟳, we quote from memory, states that this argumentum ad hominem drew down great applause from the saint's supporters, and loud cries of "order⟳" from the ministerial side of the house.”

“[T]hey prefer⟳ argumentum ad hominem, which is a hell of a way to conduct a discussion.”

“The Fat Clown Derek keeps saying that I am making an argumentum ad hominem against him[.]”

CEFR level