Contradiction Meaning

Meaning of the Word
Contradiction refers to a situation where two or more statements, ideas, or actions are in direct opposition to each other, or when something asserts both the truth and falsehood simultaneously.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A combination of statements, ideas, or features that are opposed to one another or inconsistent.
2. A statement or proposition that opposes another or denies the truth of something.
3. The act of asserting two or more things that cannot both be true at the same time.
4. A situation or occurrence where elements are in direct opposition, making them incompatible or contradictory.

History and Origin
The word “contradiction” comes from the Latin contradictio, meaning “the act of speaking against.” It is derived from contra, meaning “against,” and dicere, meaning “to speak.” The concept of contradiction has been central to logical philosophy since ancient times, especially in the study of formal logic, where contradictory statements are considered mutually exclusive and cannot both be true. Over time, the word “contradiction” expanded to refer to any situation where two things are in opposition or inconsistent with each other.

Detailed Explanation
A contradiction occurs when two or more statements or facts are in direct opposition to each other, meaning that both cannot be true at the same time. In logic, a contradiction happens when an assertion is made that both affirms and denies something simultaneously, which makes it logically impossible. For example, the statement “The sky is both blue and not blue at the same time” is a contradiction. Contradictions can occur in arguments, statements, or situations, often leading to confusion, error, or the need for further clarification. In everyday use, contradiction can refer to any discrepancy between what is said and what is done or between conflicting beliefs.

Example Sentences

1. His actions were in direct contradiction to his words, making it hard to trust him.
2. The evidence presented in the trial was full of contradictions, confusing the jury.
3. There’s a clear contradiction between what you claim and what the facts show.
4. The two reports contradicted each other, leaving the committee uncertain about the situation.
5. It was a contradiction to say one thing and then do the exact opposite.
6. Her behavior is a contradiction of her usual calm demeanor.
7. They found a contradiction in the company’s financial records during the audit.
8. The politician’s statements about the economy were riddled with contradictions.
9. The teacher pointed out the contradiction in the student’s argument, showing its flaws.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Inconsistency: A lack of harmony or agreement, where statements or actions are contradictory.
2. Discrepancy: A difference or contradiction between two things that are expected to be the same.
3. Opposition: The act of being against something, or the state of being in contradiction with it.
4. Contrariety: The quality of being opposite or in contrast, particularly in ideas or statements.
5. Conflict: A serious disagreement or contradiction between ideas, values, or individuals.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Paradox: A statement or situation that seems contradictory but may contain truth or be logically valid.
2. Dissonance: A lack of harmony or agreement, often used in the context of contrasting ideas or sounds.
3. Reversal: An opposite action or change, sometimes revealing a contradiction in earlier actions.
4. Clash: A direct conflict or contradiction, often in ideas or actions.
5. Opposition: A stance or idea that contradicts or is in direct contrast to another.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Irony: A situation or expression where there is a contradiction between appearance and reality.
2. Disagreement: A lack of consensus, where opposing views may lead to contradictions.
3. Fault: An error or mistake that can create a contradiction between what is expected and what occurs.
4. Controversy: A prolonged public disagreement or contradiction, especially involving strong opinions.
5. Debate: A formal discussion, often involving contradictions between opposing viewpoints.

Antonyms

1. Agreement: A situation where things are in harmony, with no contradiction between them.
2. Consistency: The quality of being in agreement or harmony with previous actions, statements, or ideas.
3. Harmony: A state of balanced or consistent ideas or actions, without contradictions.
4. Conformity: The act of complying with established rules or norms, often without contradiction.
5. Accord: An agreement or harmony between statements or actions, opposed to contradiction.