a double paradox

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a double paradox" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or statement that contains two contradictory elements, creating a paradoxical scenario. Example: "The concept of a double paradox arises when two opposing truths coexist, challenging our understanding of reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

For many, however, there is a double paradox: on opening their suitcase at the end of the journey, they find not just that the libertarian ideals they left the left to preserve have gone missing, but that the only thing remaining is the very cynicism and ruthlessness which they left the left to escape.

The Guardian - Books

And there's a double paradox.

BBC

This gives rise to a double paradox: Tunisia has seen an important increase in immigration, but policies have remained stable.

Comparative Migration Studies

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It highlights in some sense a kind of double paradox when it comes to citizenship in present times, of international migration: As a Swedish citizen she belongs – formally – to society, but as Ana describes it she still does not fully belong to this society, based on who she is – namely Roma.

European Journal of Futures Research

In a new book, "The Double Paradox," the sinologist Andrew Wedeman examines a raft of data on arrests, bribes, and prosecutions not only in China but in other countries with high rates of corruption such as Zaire, Nicaragua, and Haiti — as well as places with high growth such as Korea and Taiwan.

The New Yorker

Andrew Wedeman's (2012) Double Paradox describes a significant, if still flawed, effort by China's leadership to constrain corruption.

Triple Helix

I have written for Politico about the double paradox of inequality.

Independent

Table 2 summarizes this double paradox.

Comparative Migration Studies

The "passion" of the book's subtitle is a double entendre, another paradox: as much a nod to early episodes of religious repression, and later suffering, as it is an expression of joy.

The New York Times - Books

Johnson's ancient and perennial theme is the search for a good life – a search we are all still embarked upon, whether we see it that way or not – and he writes in vigorous and surging prose, declamatory yet questioning, authoritative yet self-interrogating, always working toward a clearer view of things through doubles, paradoxes and inversions.

The Guardian - Books

Such paradoxes twist the book into a double helix of top scholarship and over-the-top commentary.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a double paradox", ensure that both contradictory elements are clearly defined for the reader to understand the complexity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid layering too many abstract concepts when explaining "a double paradox". Clarity is key; simplify the elements to ensure the audience grasps the inherent contradiction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a double paradox" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of contradictory situation. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable in written English, denoting a scenario with two conflicting elements.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a double paradox" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a situation containing two distinct, contradictory elements. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare, it appears in news and media, and scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure both paradoxical elements are clearly defined for the reader. Alternatives like "a dual paradox" or "a twofold contradiction" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that while the phrase is valid, overcomplicating the paradox can hinder clarity. This phrase can enhance your writing by precisely capturing complex situations involving multiple layers of contradiction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dual paradox

Uses "dual" as a synonym for "double", maintaining the core meaning.

a twofold contradiction

Highlights the presence of two conflicting elements without explicitly using the term "paradox".

a paradoxical situation

Focuses on the situation itself being paradoxical, rather than highlighting the double nature of the paradox.

a contradictory dilemma

Emphasizes the contradictory and problematic nature of the situation.

a complex paradox

Generalizes the idea to a paradox with multiple layers or elements.

a paradoxical conflict

Highlights the conflict arising from the paradoxical elements.

a self-contradictory problem

Highlights the self-contradictory nature of the issue.

a perplexing paradox

Emphasizes the confusing and puzzling nature of the paradox.

an apparent contradiction

Suggests that the contradiction might not be real upon closer inspection.

a twisted paradox

Emphasizes the complex and convoluted nature of the paradox.

FAQs

How can I use "a double paradox" in a sentence?

You can use "a double paradox" to describe a situation with two conflicting or contradictory elements. For instance, "The policy created "a double paradox": it aimed to reduce costs but increased bureaucracy".

What's an alternative to saying "a double paradox"?

Alternatives include "a dual paradox", "a twofold contradiction", or "a paradoxical situation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a double paradox"?

While "paradox" inherently implies a contradiction, "a double paradox" emphasizes the presence of two distinct conflicting elements, making it suitable when the complexity warrants highlighting.

How does "a double paradox" differ from a regular paradox?

"A double paradox" specifically denotes a situation where two paradoxical elements are at play, adding an extra layer of complexity compared to a single, standard paradox.