double paradox

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "double paradox" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or concept that contains two contradictory elements or ideas that create a paradoxical effect. Example: "The theory presented a double paradox, where the more we learned about the universe, the less we seemed to understand its fundamental nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

In doing so he unearths a double paradox.

Harvard University

I have written for Politico about the double paradox of inequality.

Independent

In Double Paradox, Andrew Wedeman seeks to explain why the Chinese economy performed so well despite widespread corruption at almost kleptocratic levels.

Cornell University

The working group has as its premise a double paradox of contemporary life: the hardening of ethnic and racial boundaries at a time when goods and information flow across national borders quite freely, and the racialization of social relations at a time when racial theories have an awkward relation to scientific prestige, and racial categories have become conspicuously unstable.

Columbia University

Analyzing the origins of pro-shareholder and pro-financial market reforms in the United States and Germany during the past two decades, Cioffi unravels a double paradox: the expansion of law and the regulatory state at the core of the financially driven neoliberal economic model and the surprising role of Center Left parties in championing the interests of shareholders and the financial sector.

Cornell University

Borders & Boundaries had as its premise a double paradox of contemporary life: the hardening of ethnic and racial boundaries at a time when goods and information flow across national borders quite freely, and the increasingly acute focus on racial differences at a time when race as a "scientific" or descriptive social category has become conspicuously unstable.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Johnson's ancient and perennial theme is the search for a good life – a search we are all still embarked upon, whether we see it that way or not – and he writes in vigorous and surging prose, declamatory yet questioning, authoritative yet self-interrogating, always working toward a clearer view of things through doubles, paradoxes and inversions.

The Guardian - Books

This shift towards androgyny also allows women to better cope with the challenge of the double bind paradox : the conflicting expectations that women leaders should simultaneously behave in a masculine manner (e.g., assertive, competitive) to fulfill the leader role and a feminine manner (e.g., compassionate, caring) to fulfill the female gender role.

Forbes

name double binds, paradoxes and dilemmas when they occur.

Journal of Organization Design

Individual employees should try to name double binds, paradoxes and dilemmas when they occur support any step and behaviour to stop the double bind-communication pattern from further spreading within the organisation nevertheless bear in mind the limits of employees' possibilities in a double bind-system.

Journal of Organization Design

Twins, doubles and paradoxes abound in Carter's final novel, as they do in Shakespeare.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "double paradox", ensure that the two conflicting elements are clearly defined and explained to avoid confusion. Provide specific examples to illustrate the paradoxical nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when describing a "double paradox". Clarity is key. Simplify the explanation of the two conflicting elements to ensure the audience grasps the central idea.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double paradox" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a situation or concept characterized by two conflicting or contradictory elements. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of the term.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "double paradox" refers to a situation presenting two contradictory elements, demanding careful analysis. While Ludwig identifies the phrase as grammatically correct and usable, it's not as common as simply "paradox". The best use cases are in academic or analytical contexts, where identifying and explaining the specific conflicting elements is crucial. When you do use "double paradox", make sure to clearly define the two opposing components, using examples to avoid ambiguity. Although the term is uncommon, authoritative sources such as The New Yorker and The New York Times do use it, confirming that in certain contexts, it is the most precise term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dual contradiction

This alternative emphasizes the conflicting nature of the paradox by using the term "contradiction" instead of "paradox".

twofold paradox

This alternative highlights the two-part nature of the paradox more explicitly.

contradictory conundrum

This alternative uses a more evocative term, "conundrum", to suggest a puzzling or difficult problem.

ambiguous anomaly

This phrase focuses on the deviation from the norm and the lack of clarity inherent in the situation.

conflicting dilemma

This alternative highlights the difficult choice or situation arising from the paradox.

twisted irony

This alternative emphasizes the ironic or unexpected nature of the paradoxical situation.

complex contradiction

This alternative emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the contradiction.

paradoxical duality

This highlights the two-sided nature of the situation where both sides create a paradox.

binary paradox

This alternative highlights the binary, two-state nature of a specific type of paradox.

double bind

This alternative emphasizes a situation involving conflicting demands that create a no-win scenario.

FAQs

How can I use "double paradox" in a sentence?

You can use "double paradox" to describe situations containing two contradictory elements. For example: "The economic policy presented a "double paradox": increased spending alongside tax cuts."

What is the meaning of "double paradox"?

A "double paradox" refers to a situation or concept that contains two conflicting elements or ideas that create a paradoxical effect. It often involves a complex interplay of opposing forces.

Are there alternative ways to express "double paradox"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "dual contradiction" or "twofold paradox" depending on the context. These alternatives maintain the core meaning of two conflicting elements.

Is "double paradox" a commonly used phrase?

While grammatically correct, "double paradox" is not as frequently used as simpler terms like "paradox". It is appropriate when specifically highlighting the presence of two paradoxical elements within a single situation.