ad hominem
Say it: ad HOM-ih-nem /ˌad ˈhɒmɪnɛm/ · phrase
What “ad hominem” means
Attacking the person instead of answering their argument.
More precisely: Attacking the person making an argument rather than the argument itself.
When to use it
In debates, when someone insults a speaker instead of addressing their point. A formal term for an unfair move.
Memory trick
Latin “ad hominem” means “to the person”: the attack targets the person.
Similar words
personal attack, mudslinging
Where it comes from
Latin, 'to the person'.
Quick check
You suggest a safer crossing. Someone replies that your clothes look ridiculous, without discussing road safety. What kind of attack is this?
a rebuttal or an ad hominem?
Show the answer
an ad hominem
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