Syn. — Plausible, Specious. Plausible denotes that which seems reasonable, yet leaves distrust in the judgment. Specious describes that which presents a fair appearance to the view and yet covers something false. Specious refers more definitely to the act or purpose of false representation; plausible has more reference to the effect on the beholder or hearer. An argument may by specious when it is not plausible because its sophistry is so easily discovered.
PLAUSIBLEIZE
Plau"si*ble*ize, v. t.
Defn: To render plausible. [R.]
PLAUSIBLENESS
Plau"si*ble*ness, n.
Defn: Quality of being plausible.
PLAUSIBLY
Plau"si*bly, adv.
1. In a plausible manner.
2. Contentedly, readily. [Obs.] The Romans plausibly did give consent. Shak.
PLAUSIVE
Plau"sive, a. Etym: [L. plaudere, plausum, to applaud.]
1. Applauding; manifesting praise. Young.