contradictory

USAGE SUMMARY

"contradictory" is a valid word in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe something that is in opposition or contradicting. For example: "The defendant's testimony was contradictory and unreliable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Morrison, who was questioned three times during the Friday conference about the two unaccompanied minors, issued a range of contradictory responses.

The Guardian

This has been seized upon by Fianna Fáil as evidence that their rivals have opposing and contradictory tax policies.

The Guardian

The debate demands onlookers accept one of two contradictory premises, so there is little room for nuance and the argument never runs out of fuel.

The Guardian - Opinion

For those who know little about Turner's life, it's a jolt to accept that the creator of paintings of genius was a faulty bloke with an intermittently uncivil tongue, a tendency to grunt and a contradictory attitude towards women.

The Guardian - Film

The messy, contradictory energy of the yes movement has been harnessed - willingly - by the SNP's laser-guided election machine.

The Guardian

After weeks of contradictory statements, finance minister Yanis Varoufakis announced last week the sale of state assets, halted when the leftist-led Syriza government was elected in January, but would resume on different terms.

The Guardian - Business

Is it urban, working-class England in its various, and sometimes contradictory, manifestations, from pubs and the music hall to northern non-conformity (and comedy)?

The Guardian - Opinion

She combines lack of self-awareness with a contradictory but well-honed sense of what makes good clickbait.

The Guardian - Opinion

But it is hard to see how proposals for European democracy could avoid being either just cosmetic or contradictory.

The Guardian - Opinion

Sri, though, found the idea of taking Queensland government money – from the same authority who are taking funds away – too contradictory.

The Guardian - Music

Although friends and foe alike ascribe consistency of purpose to Gove's record, I'm inclined to think the legacy will be as contradictory as the man himself.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contradictory", ensure that the opposing elements are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Strong writing requires clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "contradictory" as a general negative descriptor. Instead, specify exactly which aspects are inconsistent and why they undermine the overall argument or situation. Provide concrete examples for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "contradictory" functions to describe something that presents opposing or inconsistent elements. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, highlighting discrepancies between statements or ideas. The examples show its role in identifying logical inconsistencies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Arts

6%

Opinion

5%

Lifestyle

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contradictory" is a versatile adjective used to highlight inconsistencies or oppositions. Ludwig AI identifies its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, especially in news and business. When using "contradictory", clarity is key; specify the conflicting elements for maximum impact. For greater emphasis, consider using synonyms such as "inconsistent" or "conflicting". Remember to avoid overusing "very contradictory"; stronger alternatives exist for more impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-contradictory

Explicitly points to a statement or argument that contradicts itself within its own terms.

inconsistent

This term emphasizes a lack of uniformity or logical connection between different parts, highlighting a discrepancy.

incompatible

Emphasizes that two or more things cannot function or exist together harmoniously.

conflicting

This suggests a direct clash or opposition between elements, indicating they cannot coexist or be true simultaneously.

opposing

Indicates a direct and active resistance or counteraction between two things.

irreconcilable

This conveys that differences are so profound they cannot be resolved or brought into agreement.

paradoxical

This term indicates a statement that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper truth.

mutually exclusive

Highlights that two or more things cannot occur or be true at the same time.

at odds

Suggests disagreement or conflict, without necessarily implying a logical contradiction.

divergent

This emphasizes a difference that is in the process of becoming more different.

FAQs

How to use "contradictory" in a sentence?

You can use "contradictory" to describe statements, actions, or ideas that are inconsistent or opposed to one another. For example, "The witness gave "contradictory statements" during the trial".

What's the difference between "contradictory" and "paradoxical"?

"Contradictory" refers to things that are logically opposed, while "paradoxical" describes something that appears self-contradictory but may contain a deeper truth. A "contradictory statement" is simply inconsistent, whereas a paradoxical statement invites further analysis.

What can I say instead of "contradictory"?

You can use alternatives like "inconsistent", "conflicting", or "mutually exclusive" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say something is "very contradictory"?

While grammatically correct, saying something is "very contradictory" can sound redundant. Consider using stronger synonyms like "diametrically opposed" or "completely inconsistent" for greater impact.