contradictory stance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contradictory stance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or viewpoint that is inconsistent or opposing in nature. Example: "The politician's contradictory stance on climate change has left many voters confused about his true beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Global brands must avoid a contradictory stance in different markets.

The Guardian

I can only conclude that this contradictory stance has little to do with the skills required for each pursuit.

The Washington Post

The seemingly contradictory stance reflects Beijing's belief that the Communist Party can and should shape religious practice to its own ends.

The Washington Post

In President Trump's first hundred days in office, Ivanka has assiduously done her part to soften her father's bristly and contradictory stance toward China.

The New Yorker

It uses letters from the era to look at the achievements of Victorian women in the field and explores the contradictory stance of Charles Darwin, who used findings from female researchers but voiced concern about them working outside the home.

The Guardian

This creates an oddly contradictory stance toward candidates like Mr. Bloomberg: We don't hold the office in great esteem, but hold on a second, Mr. Moneybags, what makes you think you're qualified?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

His seemingly contradictory stances earned Mr. Khashoggi legions of opponents and critics.

The Washington Post

These contradictory stances on the role of public power have paralyzed policymaking and generated rancorous disputes about government's legitimate scope.

Princeton University

Politically, unions know they can't compete with business groups on a national level, despite their sometimes contradictory stances on campaign finance policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Until recently, little was spent by Super Pacs allied with senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz or others attacking Trump's incendiary rhetoric, contradictory stances and checkered business record.

The Guardian

Those involved in the Islamic center project in New York offered contradictory stances and opinions on Thursday, making it hard to determine if the parties involved had a common front.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contradictory stance", ensure the context clearly demonstrates the opposing or inconsistent nature of the position being described.

Common error

Avoid using "contradictory stance" simply to denote disagreement. The position must present a genuine, demonstrable contradiction to warrant the term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contradictory stance" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It describes a specific type of position or viewpoint, one characterized by internal inconsistency or opposition, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contradictory stance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a position characterized by internal inconsistencies. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media. When employing this phrase, ensure a clear demonstration of the opposing nature of the described position. Consider alternatives like "inconsistent position" or "conflicting viewpoint" for nuanced expression. Be careful to use it accurately to describe genuine contradictions, as misuse can dilute the term's impact. The register is neutral which renders "contradictory stance" suitable for academic, professional, and general discussions alike.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-contradictory position

Specifically points out that the position contradicts itself.

inconsistent position

Focuses on the lack of consistency rather than direct contradiction.

conflicting viewpoint

Emphasizes the clash between different points of view.

opposing viewpoints

Highlights viewpoints that are in opposition to each other.

paradoxical attitude

Highlights the paradoxical nature of the attitude.

divergent opinions

Highlights the divergence or separation of opinions.

mutually exclusive perspectives

Indicates perspectives that cannot coexist.

dichotomous perspective

Implies a division into two opposing categories.

irreconcilable differences

Emphasizes the impossibility of reconciling the differences.

ambivalent outlook

Suggests a mixed or uncertain outlook containing contradictory elements.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "contradictory stance" in a sentence?

Use "contradictory stance" to describe a situation where someone's actions or statements don't align with their professed beliefs or previous statements. For example: "The politician's "contradictory stance" on environmental regulations raised concerns among voters."

What are some alternatives to using "contradictory stance"?

You can use alternatives like "inconsistent position", "conflicting viewpoint", or "paradoxical attitude" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "contradictory stance" or "hypocritical stance"?

"Contradictory stance" implies an inconsistency, while "hypocritical stance" suggests a deliberate pretense of having certain beliefs or virtues. Choose the term that accurately reflects the intent and the available evidence.

Can you provide an example of a "contradictory stance" in current events?

A government that advocates for free trade but then imposes tariffs on imported goods could be described as having a "contradictory stance".