When an unspecified source is used as evidence for the claim. This is commonly indicated by phrases such as “They say that...,” “It has been said...,” “I heard that...,” “Studies show...,” or generalized groups such as, “scientists say...
Examples:
- You know, they say that if you swallow gum it takes seven years to digest. So whatever you do, don’t swallow the gum!
Synonyms: appeal to anonymous authority