Contradictory

/ˌkɒntrəˈdɪktəri/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A statement or assertion that contradicts another.
There are several contradictions in her testimony that need to be clarified.
adjective
Expressing or showing a contradiction; containing elements that are in opposition to each other.
The witness provided contradictory statements that confused the investigators.
Involving two or more ideas, facts, or statements that cannot both be true at the same time.
His actions were contradictory to his words, leading to distrust among his peers.
Pertaining to or characterized by contradictions.
The book presents a contradictory view of history that challenges established narratives.

Etymology

from Latin 'contradictorius', from 'contra-' meaning 'against' and 'dicere' meaning 'to say'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

contradictory statements
two or more statements that oppose each other
contradictory evidence
evidence that is contrary to another piece of evidence
contradictory beliefs
beliefs that cannot coexist without conflict

Related Words

contradiction
the act of denying the truth of a statement or assertion
contradict
to assert the opposite of a statement made by someone
inconsistency
the quality of being not compatible or in keeping with

Slang Meanings

a mixed message
That text he sent was totally contradictory, I can't tell what he really wants.
being two-faced
She's so contradictory, one minute she's nice and the next she's rude.