Contradiction

/ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a situation in which consistent elements or ideas are opposed or in conflict

His statement about being punctual was a contradiction to his habitual lateness.

the act of stating something that is opposed to another, typically in a logical argument

The contradiction in her argument weakened her overall point.

a statement or proposition that contradicts another or itself, creating inconsistency

It is a contradiction to claim that one loves freedom while simultaneously oppressing others.

From Latin 'contradictio', from 'contra' meaning 'against' and 'dicere' meaning 'to speak'.

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.

inconsistent

Not compatible or in harmony.

paradox

A statement that seemingly contradicts itself but may be true.