deep contradiction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deep contradiction" is correct and usable in written English.
It refers to a strong or profound inconsistency or conflict between two or more ideas, beliefs, or principles. Example: "The politician's actions were in deep contradiction to his promises of transparency and honesty." In this sentence, the phrase "deep contradiction" emphasizes the significant and fundamental contradiction between the politician's actions and his stated principles.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

These stories hint at a deep contradiction.

The Washington Post

There is also a deep contradiction in Fraser's proposal.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the end, there is a deep contradiction in Hayek's thought.

The New York Times - Books

What he does instead is expose the deep contradiction between Washington's long experiment in slashing the civilian instruments of American power and its post-9/11 attempt to use those same instruments to remake the greater Middle East.

The New York Times - Books

The last crisis may be over, but it has exacerbated a deep contradiction at the heart of Europe between euro-zone economies' need for integration and the voters' rejection of it.

The Economist

"There is a deep contradiction in the attitudes of a society which celebrates equality in principle yet treats some people, especially the poor and vulnerable, as unwanted, unvalued and unnoticed," the bishops write.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But they also reveal deep contradictions.

The Washington Post

Even a cursory look at these costs exposes the deep contradictions in the renewable energy movement.

The New York Times

Dr. Van Murray Sim, the founder of Edgewood Arsenal's program of clinical research on psychochemicals, was a man of deep contradictions.

The New Yorker

The statement is the latest evidence of deep contradictions in the Trump administration's approach to climate change.

The Washington Post

Over the course of half a dozen articles, Lenin unpicked the deep contradictions at play in Tolstoy's work.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deep contradiction", ensure that the contrasting elements are clearly defined to highlight the intensity of the conflict or inconsistency.

Common error

Avoid using "deep contradiction" as a mere intensifier. Ensure the situation genuinely warrants the descriptor by confirming a significant, underlying conflict exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep contradiction" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "deep" intensifies the noun "contradiction". It denotes a significant and profound inconsistency or conflict. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

23%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "deep contradiction" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote a significant inconsistency or conflict. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is particularly prevalent in news media and academic writing. Alternatives like "fundamental inconsistency" or "profound paradox" can be used for variety, but it's essential to ensure the context warrants the descriptor "deep", signifying a truly substantial and underlying conflict. Using "deep contradiction" effectively involves clearly defining the contrasting elements to emphasize the intensity of the inconsistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental inconsistency

Focuses on the basic or essential nature of the conflict.

profound paradox

Emphasizes the seemingly absurd or self-contradictory nature of the situation.

inherent conflict

Highlights that the contradiction is a natural or essential part of something.

stark contrast

Emphasizes the sharp and clear difference between two things.

glaring disparity

Highlights the obvious and easily noticeable difference or inequality.

significant divergence

Focuses on the point at which things start to differ or move apart.

acute tension

Emphasizes the strained relationship or opposition between conflicting elements.

serious incompatibility

Highlights the inability of two or more things to exist or work together.

marked divergence

Highlights that the divergence is easily noticeable.

major discrepancy

Focuses on the difference between two things that should be the same.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "deep contradiction" in a sentence?

Use "deep contradiction" to highlight a significant and fundamental conflict between two ideas, beliefs, or actions. Ensure the context clearly establishes both elements of the contradiction for maximum impact.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "deep contradiction"?

You can use alternatives like "fundamental inconsistency", "profound paradox", or "inherent conflict" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between a "deep contradiction" and a simple contradiction?

Yes, a "deep contradiction" implies a more profound and significant level of inconsistency or conflict, often rooted in underlying principles or values, unlike a superficial or minor contradiction.

When is it appropriate to use "deep contradiction" in writing?

It is appropriate when analyzing complex situations, philosophical arguments, or character flaws where conflicting elements create a substantial and impactful inconsistency.