Which logical informal fallacy is committed in the following argument: 'Mr. X…

Concept

Equivocation occurs when a key word or phrase changes meaning between premises, making an inference appear valid even though the meanings differ. It is a defect in the use of language rather than evidence for the conclusion.

Application

In the statement about abusive language, “abusive language” means insulting or offensive speech directed at a child. In “child abuse is a crime,” “child abuse” means harmful mistreatment of a child. The argument shifts the sense of “abuse” while treating it as unchanged, so the conclusion does not follow from the premise. The fallacy is Equivocation.

Contrast and cross-check

• Appeal to Emotion relies on feelings such as pity, fear, or anger as support.

• Hasty generalisation draws a broad rule from too few or unrepresentative cases.

• Appeal to force uses a threat or coercion as support.

The repeated expression changes meaning, which cross-checks the classification as Equivocation.