is a common paradox

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a common paradox" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or statement that seems contradictory or self-defeating but may reveal a deeper truth. Example: "The idea that less is more is a common paradox in design, where simplicity often leads to greater impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"This is a common paradox," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a common paradox.

The New Yorker

The lack of correlation between size and complexity of eukaryotic genomes, largely due to the presence of noncoding highly repetitive DNA, is termed as the C-value paradox, which is a common phenomenon observed in higher plants.

Genomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics

The aim of the paper is to gain insight into a common paradox that a technology can meet the criteria for success set out at the start of the project yet fail to become part of everyday clinical routines.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

It's an increasingly common paradox: the banks are so concerned about your ability to pay that you can't even refinance a loan to make yourself more able to pay.

Huffington Post

It is a paradox common to all wilderness writing.

The Guardian - Books

This is a paradox common to technological existence: everything gets a little easier and a little less real.

The New Yorker

It is a very common and human paradox.

The Guardian - Books

At first glance this is a paradox situation and contradicts common textbook knowledge that fusion is triggered by Ca2+, including the surfactant secreting alveolar type II cell.

Plosone

It is a sad paradox.

The New York Times

This is a strange paradox.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is a common paradox" to introduce a statement or situation that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper truth or reflects a complex reality. This helps to highlight the nuanced nature of the subject.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something "is a common paradox" without elaborating on the contradictory elements or providing context. Always explain the paradox to ensure the reader understands the apparent contradiction and its underlying meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a common paradox" functions as an introductory phrase. It sets up the expectation that what follows will present a seemingly contradictory situation or statement that warrants further examination. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a common paradox" serves to introduce seemingly contradictory yet insightful statements or situations. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When employing this phrase, ensure to fully explain the contradiction to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "is a typical contradiction" or "is a frequent anomaly" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a usual paradox

Uses "usual" instead of "common", indicating the habitual nature of the paradox.

is a typical contradiction

Replaces "paradox" with "contradiction", emphasizing the conflicting nature of the situation.

is an often-seen paradox

Rephrases to emphasize the frequency of the paradox's occurrence.

is a regularly observed paradox

Highlights the regular occurrence of the paradoxical situation.

is a frequent anomaly

Substitutes "paradox" with "anomaly", highlighting the deviation from the norm.

is a recurring irony

Uses "irony" instead of "paradox", focusing on the unexpected or incongruous aspect.

is a widespread paradox

Emphasizes the broad prevalence of the paradoxical situation.

is a familiar conundrum

Replaces "paradox" with "conundrum", emphasizing the puzzling or difficult nature of the situation.

is a generally known paradox

Focuses on the general awareness of the paradoxical situation.

is a well-known inconsistency

Highlights the lack of logical coherence using "inconsistency".

FAQs

How can I use "is a common paradox" in a sentence?

You can use "is a common paradox" to introduce a situation or statement that seems contradictory but reveals a deeper truth. For example, "That wanting more often leads to dissatisfaction "is a common paradox" in modern society".

What are some alternatives to "is a common paradox"?

Alternatives include "is a typical contradiction", "is a frequent anomaly", or "is a recurring irony", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to explain a paradox after stating it?

Yes, it's important to explain the contradictory elements of a paradox and provide context to ensure your audience understands the underlying meaning. Otherwise, it might just sound like a confusing statement.

What makes something a "paradox" rather than just a "contradiction"?

A paradox often involves elements that seem contradictory on the surface but may reveal a deeper truth or insight upon closer examination. A simple contradiction might just be a direct opposition without such layers of meaning.