contradictory role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contradictory role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or function that involves conflicting responsibilities or expectations. Example: "In the project, she found herself in a contradictory role, having to balance the demands of both the marketing and finance departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

The presented theoretical results indicate contradictory role of the fluorination in preparation of electric n-semiconductors.

Synthetic Metals

"But he had a very contradictory role inside the party, because he kicked out a lot of his enemies".

The New York Times

To the Taliban, the UN appears to have a contradictory role, in applying sanctions while simultaneously delivering humanitarian assistance.

The Economist

Isn't that kind of a setback for the women's movement?" Feminism and the contradictory role of the first lady have rarely meshed well.

The Guardian - Opinion

It has the contradictory role of carrying out unpopular Security Council resolutions (sanctions, interventions) while simultaneously distributing developmental and humanitarian aid through its agencies.

The New York Times

Rather, it is a flat and ultimately sad book, written by a man who played an essential, if contradictory, role in the history of the last century.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Ephemeral tags, bespoke street art and elaborate mural campaigns play contradictory roles.

The Guardian

Relatively unexplored in this discourse are the contradictory roles that labour plays in contemporary urban development.

Geoforum

As the true nature of Miranda's secret becomes clear, the three characters are drawn together, with Adam taking on the contradictory roles of servant and moral superior.

The Guardian - Books

In the 12 years since the Palestinian Authority was formed, the security forces have taken on a range of often contradictory roles.

The New York Times

They are more likely to be successful in managerial positions where they are required to play multiple, and even contradictory roles.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "contradictory role", ensure the context clearly explains the nature of the contradiction. Providing specific examples can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming the reader understands the inherent contradiction. Always provide sufficient context to clarify the conflicting aspects of the "contradictory role".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contradictory role" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "contradictory" modifies the noun "role". It describes a position or function that involves inherent conflicts or opposing aspects. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is valid.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contradictory role" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a position or function characterized by inherent conflicts or opposing aspects. As validated by Ludwig AI, it's common across various fields, especially science and news media. While the phrase itself is straightforward, it's crucial to provide adequate context to explain the specific contradictions. Alternatives such as "conflicting responsibilities" or "paradoxical situation" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for professional and academic writing. When using the phrase, remember to clarify the nature of the contradiction to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conflicting responsibilities

Highlights the existence of duties that clash with each other.

conflicting function

Replaces 'role' with 'function', emphasizing the activity rather than the position.

opposing functions

Emphasizes the presence of functions that are in opposition.

paradoxical responsibility

Substitutes 'contradictory' with 'paradoxical' to highlight the seemingly self-contradictory nature of the responsibility.

inconsistent position

Emphasizes the lack of uniformity or agreement in the role.

ambivalent duty

Highlights the presence of mixed feelings or ideas in the duty.

paradoxical situation

Highlights the contradictory nature of the circumstances themselves.

opposing task

Focuses on the conflicting nature of the task itself.

dualistic responsibility

Emphasizes the presence of two distinct and conflicting responsibilities.

conflicting mandates

Focuses on instances when official orders or requirements clash with one another.

FAQs

How can I use "contradictory role" in a sentence?

You can use "contradictory role" to describe a situation where someone or something has conflicting responsibilities or purposes. For example: "The organization found itself in a "contradictory role", both promoting environmental protection and supporting economic development".

What's a good alternative to "contradictory role"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "conflicting responsibilities", "paradoxical situation", or "inconsistent position".

Is it grammatically correct to say "contradictory role"?

Yes, "contradictory role" is grammatically correct. It's a common and accepted way to describe a position or function with inherent conflicts or opposing aspects.

What's the difference between "contradictory role" and "conflicting role"?

"Contradictory role" and "conflicting role" are very similar and often interchangeable. Both describe a situation where responsibilities or aspects of a role are in opposition. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference.