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I'm looking for a word that describes an idea that is often held out as true or used as a rationale though in fact the opposite is true. Something like "common misconception" or "antipattern" come close, but I feel as though there's a better word I'm missing.

Examples:

"Refusing to use popular security algorithms because everyone knows how they work is a [word], since it is because everyone knows how they work that they are so safe."

Not necessarily saying I 100% agree with the following, but someone who advocates for Keto might say this:

"Trying to lose weight by cutting out fat is a [word], because replacing carbohydrates and proteins with fat allows the body to enter ketosis, which is one of the best states for losing weight."

Thanks in advance.

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  • A "[common] mistake", perhaps?
    – Řídící
    Commented Feb 12, 2019 at 16:53
  • @Keepthesemind Interesting, that does seem to fit well into those examples. I think I'm looking more for something that describes an idea than an action. Fallacy comes to mind as another word that might work.
    – Jon McClung
    Commented Feb 12, 2019 at 17:08
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    Myth? OED definition: A widespread but untrue or erroneous story or belief; a widely held misconception; a misrepresentation of the truth.
    – ermanen
    Commented Feb 12, 2019 at 17:17

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It is a "myth" or it is "mythical".

https://www.thefreedictionary.com/myth

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The second meaning of 'Canard' as per Merriam-Webster may be a good fit.

Canard

1a : a false or unfounded report or story. especially : a fabricated report

'The report about a conspiracy proved to be a canard'.

b : a groundless rumor or belief

'the widespread canard that every lawyer is dishonest'

Though you might want to rejig your examples slightly for the best flow:

"The idea of refusing to use popular security algorithms because everyone knows how they work is a canard, since it is precisely because everyone knows how they work that they are so safe."

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