Ad hominem

Ad hominem, short for argumentum ad hominem, is a rhetorical tactic that attacks the character, motive, or other attribute of a person making an argument instead of addressing the argument itself. It can divert debate through irrelevant and emotionally charged claims about an opponent. The term also has a traditional philosophical use for arguments tailored to a particular audience, using that person's own beliefs and arguments. It is not simply synonymous with an insult.

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Meaning

Argument directed at the person

Common form

Attacking a claimant's personal trait instead of addressing the point under debate

Historical study

First studied in ancient Greece