contradiction

[ kon-truh-dik-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of contradicting; gainsaying or opposition.
2. assertion of the contrary or opposite; denial.
3. a statement or proposition that contradicts or denies another or itself and is logically incongruous.
4. direct opposition between things compared; inconsistency.
5. a contradictory act, fact, etc.

contradiction

/ ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃən /

noun

1. the act of going against; opposition; denial
2. a declaration of the opposite or contrary
3. a statement that is at variance with itself (often in the phrase a contradiction in terms )
4. conflict or inconsistency, as between events, qualities, etc
5. a person or thing containing conflicting qualities
6. logic a statement that is false under all circumstances; necessary falsehood

Other Words From

• inter·contra·diction noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of contradiction¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English contradiccioun, from Anglo-French, from Latin contrādictiōn-, stem of contrādictiō “counterargument, objection, reply”; equivalent to contradict + -ion

Example Sentences

As Douglass puts it, they would “see what ought to be by reflection of what is and endeavor to remove the contradiction.”

From Salon

During the conversation, Trump also reportedly pledged to support Ukraine, in contradiction of statements he made on the campaign trail.

From Salon

Dr Dayah argues that the significant civilian casualties in Gaza, together with the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure and humanitarian disaster that have followed the 7 October attack, means that it was in direct contradiction to the teachings of Islam.

From BBC

As much as I admire Lyubov’s inner steel, she reflects an increasingly popular and uncomfortable contradiction: a desire for Russia’s defeat, while also wanting the bloodshed to end as soon as possible.

From BBC

"Calling for it to be binned with no reasoning shows a lack of appreciation for traditions which is a contradiction for any rugby player - cultural appreciation and lack of open mindedness," Taiuru added.

From BBC

Related Words

• conflict
• difference
• disagreement
• discrepancy
• dispute
• inconsistency