a clear contradiction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear contradiction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two statements or ideas are in direct opposition to each other, making it evident that they cannot both be true. Example: "His claim that he was at the meeting contradicts the evidence showing he was out of town, presenting a clear contradiction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

"This is a clear contradiction".

The New York Times

So that's a clear contradiction".

The Guardian

Attempting to solve the Thermo sudoku puzzles entirely as thermo sudoku puzzles will break down - and in several cases it will break down quickly with a clear contradiction.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Isn't this a clear contradiction?" At another point, Zawahiri concedes the failure of Al Jihad to overthrow the Egyptian government, then adds, "Neither has the eighty-year-old jihad kicked the occupier out of Palestine.

The New Yorker

There is a clear contradiction between the value that American society places on personal choice and Americans' reluctance to make their own decisions, insofar as possible, about the care they will receive as death nears.

The New York Times

He pointed out that the senator's comments at the press conference were a clear contradiction of Labor's policy, articulated at the time by the shadow defence minister, Stephen Conroy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

This would seem to be a pretty clear contradiction with President Obama's support for Bowles-Simpson.

Huffington Post

Most religions show a certain ambivalence, for fate and providence do not always form a clear-cut contradiction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If the individual is only promised that the Government will not actually use his compelled testimony or its fruits to convict him, he is still being compelled to testify against himself 'in (a) criminal case,' in clear contradiction of the constitutional command.

Cornell University

After all, the Obama administration takes the position that Obamacare's expanded coverage of children is a valid mandate, in clear contradiction to the Supreme Court's decision.

Huffington Post

In particular, in all cases it was observed that there is less oxidation above 1100 °C than below, in clear contradiction to the expectation for a diffusional process.

Journal of the European Ceramic Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear contradiction" to succinctly point out inconsistencies or opposing viewpoints in arguments or data. It adds emphasis and clarity to your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear contradiction" in very casual settings; simpler language might be more appropriate. Overuse can make your language sound overly formal or stiff in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear contradiction" functions as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and categorize a specific instance where two statements, actions, or ideas directly oppose each other. This usage aligns with examples provided by Ludwig and is supported by the positive assessment from Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear contradiction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a distinct inconsistency. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable. Its usage spans various domains, including news, science, academia, and formal business, indicating its versatility and widespread acceptance. The phrase serves to highlight inconsistencies, often in analytical or argumentative contexts. While very common, its overuse in casual settings should be avoided. Alternatives such as "an obvious discrepancy" or "a blatant inconsistency" can be used to provide stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obvious discrepancy

Emphasizes the noticeable difference or inconsistency between two things.

a blatant inconsistency

Highlights the obvious lack of agreement or compatibility.

a direct conflict

Focuses on the head-on opposition between two elements.

an explicit contradiction

Stresses that the contradiction is openly stated and not implied.

a manifest inconsistency

Suggests that the inconsistency is easily perceived or understood.

a palpable contradiction

Indicates that the contradiction is easily felt or perceived.

a plain contradiction

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of complexity of the contradiction.

a distinct divergence

Focuses on the separate paths or directions taken by two things.

a marked contrast

Highlights the noticeable difference between two things.

a sharp opposition

Stresses the strong resistance or conflict between two things.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear contradiction" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear contradiction" to point out inconsistencies. For example, "There is "a clear contradiction" between their words and their actions".

What are some alternatives to "a clear contradiction"?

Alternatives include "an obvious discrepancy", "a blatant inconsistency", or "a direct conflict", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "clear contradiction" or "obvious contradiction"?

Both "clear contradiction" and "obvious contradiction" are acceptable, but "clear contradiction" is slightly more formal. The best choice depends on the context and your desired tone.

What's the difference between "a clear contradiction" and "a paradox"?

"A clear contradiction" points out an inconsistency that undermines an argument or statement. A "paradox" is a statement that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper truth.