adj
C2
Proficient
spurious
SPYOOR-ree-uhs
Spurious (adj) means False or not genuine, despite appearing real. Example: “The report was based on spurious data that couldn't be verified.”
adj
1
False or not genuine, despite appearing real.
"The report was based on spurious data that couldn't be verified."
"He made a spurious claim about his qualifications."
2
Not actually relevant or logically connected; a false correlation.
"The study found only a spurious link between the two variables."
How to use spurious
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFake, false, or based on a misleading connection rather than real evidence.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "specious," which means something that seems plausible but is actually wrong — spurious more strongly implies fakeness or a false origin.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
spurious claim
spurious correlation
spurious argument
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more spurious
- Superlative
- most spurious
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The report was based on _____ data that couldn't be verified.
Etymology
From Late Latin spurius, meaning "illegitimate" or "false."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for spurious
See all rhymes for spurious →Frequently asked questions
What does “spurious” mean?
The word “spurious” means false or not genuine, despite appearing real. In plain terms, fake, false, or based on a misleading connection rather than real evidence.
How do you pronounce “spurious”?
“Spurious” is pronounced SPYOOR-ree-uhs (/ˈspjʊɹ.i.əs/ in IPA).
How do you use “spurious” in a sentence?
Here is “spurious” used in a sentence: “The report was based on spurious data that couldn't be verified.”
What is the opposite of “spurious”?
The opposite of “spurious” — its antonyms — are genuine and representative.
What part of speech is “spurious”?
“Spurious” is an adjective.
Where does the word “spurious” come from?
The word “spurious” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin spurius, meaning "illegitimate" or "false.".
How many meanings does “spurious” have?
“Spurious” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: false or not genuine, despite appearing real.
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