contradiction

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "contradiction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an inconsistency between two or more things. For example, "The prosecutor pointed out the contradiction in the defendant's statement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The research also highlights the contradiction of governments seeking to maximise their nation's fossil fuel extraction, as in the UK, while simultaneously pledging to limit global warming to 2C.

The Guardian

Alliance holds the balance of power on Belfast city council and has been arguing that the policy is in direct contradiction of the power sharing executive at Stormont and its aim for a shared future in Northern Ireland.

The Guardian

But the language of paradox, oxymoron and subtle contradiction – the language of children – does better.

The Guardian - Books

Anonymity may prove easier in London than Liverpool but that is not an explanation Suárez offers for the contradiction.

The Guardian - Sport

There is a balance to strike here, or is it a contradiction?

The Guardian - Film

It is this contradiction that explains why the church has been trying, and failing, to put the abuse crisis behind it for well over a decade now.

The Guardian

There is a curious contradiction in an arts centre having the name Home.

The Guardian

The contradiction clamoured: the imperialist who wanted to withdraw from the far east, the apparently cold man who once burst into passionate tears in the Commons, the confirmed anti-planner who took on the essentially planning job of minister of health in 1960.

The Guardian

We find this a contradiction that our legal team are following.

The Guardian

Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality and a trans woman herself, said that she saw no essential contradiction between Jenner's transgender identity and his conservatism if by that he meant a belief in efficient and small government.

The Guardian

Not to mention the apparent contradiction of cancelling the citizenship of those already fighting overseas so they don't come back at the same time as Australians are being urged to call the national security hotline with information about anyone planning to travel to the conflict zones so they can be prevented from leaving.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "contradiction", ensure that the conflicting elements are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "contradiction" when you actually mean "paradox". A paradox presents a seemingly self-contradictory statement that may be true, while a contradiction involves mutually exclusive statements that cannot both be true.

Linguistic Context

The noun "contradiction" functions as a descriptor of conflict or inconsistency. It is used to identify situations where two or more elements are logically opposed or incompatible. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

30%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "contradiction" is a versatile noun used to point out inconsistencies or conflicts across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable in English writing. Its strong presence in news, business, and scientific sources reflects its importance in formal discourse. Remember to use it precisely, ensuring that the conflicting elements are clearly defined. While the word can often be replaced with alternatives such as "inconsistency", "discrepancy", or "paradox", "contradiction" is the correct term when you want to express strong opposition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inconsistency

Focuses on a lack of uniformity or logical coherence.

discrepancy

Highlights a difference or divergence between facts or claims.

paradox

Emphasizes a seemingly self-contradictory statement or situation.

conflict

Indicates a clash or opposition between ideas or actions.

incompatibility

Stresses the inability of two things to exist together harmoniously.

opposition

Highlights a direct resistance or antagonism.

antithesis

Refers to the direct opposite of something.

dichotomy

Suggests a division into two mutually exclusive categories.

clash

Implies a sharp disagreement or conflict.

tension

Indicates a strained relationship or opposition between elements.

FAQs

How can I use "contradiction" in a sentence?

You can use "contradiction" to point out inconsistencies between statements, ideas, or actions. For example, "There is a clear contradiction between his words and his deeds."

What are some alternatives to using the word "contradiction"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "inconsistency", "discrepancy", or "paradox".

What is the difference between "contradiction" and "incompatibility"?

"Contradiction" implies a direct opposition, while "incompatibility" suggests an inability to coexist harmoniously. A contradiction is a stronger form of incompatibility.

Is it appropriate to use "contradiction" in formal writing?

Yes, "contradiction" is suitable for formal writing. It's a precise term for identifying logical inconsistencies and is frequently used in academic, business, and news contexts.