Meaning & Definition of word "Contradictory"

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    Contradictory

    /ˌkɒntrəˈdɪktəri/

    noun:

    • 1. A statement or assertion that contradicts another.
      • Example: There are several contradictions in her testimony that need to be clarified.

    adjective:

    • 1. Expressing or showing a contradiction; containing elements that are in opposition to each other.
      • Example: The witness provided contradictory statements that confused the investigators.
    • 2. Involving two or more ideas, facts, or statements that cannot both be true at the same time.
      • Example: His actions were contradictory to his words, leading to distrust among his peers.
    • 3. Pertaining to or characterized by contradictions.
      • Example: 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 of contradictory

    Meaning: a mixed message

    Example Sentence: That text he sent was totally contradictory, I can't tell what he really wants.

    Meaning: being two-faced

    Example Sentence: She's so contradictory, one minute she's nice and the next she's rude.