# spurious

/ˈspɝiəs/ (US) · /spjˈʊɹɪəs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spurious
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

not real or true. You use this to describe something that looks like it is genuine but is actually fake or not based on fact.

For teachers: not genuine or authentic; based on false or misleading information. Often used to describe arguments or evidence that appear valid but are actually flawed.

## Examples

- The evidence was spurious and did not prove his guilt.
- The detective realized the suspect's alibi was spurious and based on a lie.
- The philosopher argued that the argument was spurious, as it relied on a logical fallacy rather than any actual evidence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.