Meaning & Definition of word "Contradiction"
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Contradiction
/ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃən/
noun:
- 1. a situation in which consistent elements or ideas are opposed or in conflict
- Example: His statement about being punctual was a contradiction to his habitual lateness.
- 2. the act of stating something that is opposed to another, typically in a logical argument
- Example: The contradiction in her argument weakened her overall point.
- 3. a statement or proposition that contradicts another or itself, creating inconsistency
- Example: It is a contradiction to claim that one loves freedom while simultaneously oppressing others.
Etymology
From Latin 'contradictio', from 'contra' meaning 'against' and 'dicere' meaning 'to speak'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
contradiction in terms:
A combination of words or phrases that are contradictory.
contradict oneself:
To say something that opposes one's own previous statement.
walking contradiction:
Someone whose actions or statements are inconsistent.
Related Words
inconsistent:
Not compatible or in harmony.
paradox:
A statement that seemingly contradicts itself but may be true.