it seems like a paradox

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it seems like a paradox" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or statement that appears contradictory or self-defeating. Example: "The idea that we must work harder to achieve more leisure time seems like a paradox."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It seems like a paradox.

The New York Times

It seems like a paradox: Americans are increasingly worried about the gap between rich and poor, but are hesitant to have the government do anything about it.

The New York Times

It seems like a paradox, Emily Dickinson as a famous Nobody.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"With the paradox of Jefferson being a slave owner," noted Philip, "it seemed like a provocative choice".

The New York Times

It almost seems like a paradox; pain body and inner body, but they are very different.

WikiHow

It seems like a feat.

The New Yorker

It seems like a stretch.

The New York Times

"It seems like a paltry sum".

The New York Times

It seems like a grade school lesson.

The New York Times

"It seems like a given," Gasol said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It seems like a dream".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it seems like a paradox" to introduce situations that appear self-contradictory or defy conventional understanding. This helps to frame complex issues in an engaging way.

Common error

Avoid using "it seems like a paradox" when a situation merely presents a challenge or unexpected outcome. A true paradox involves inherent contradiction, not just surprise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems like a paradox" functions as an introductory expression. It sets the stage for presenting a situation or statement that appears self-contradictory or counterintuitive. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is standard and acceptable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it seems like a paradox" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to introduce situations that appear self-contradictory. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and usable. It functions to highlight apparent contradictions and invite deeper analysis in various contexts, including news media, scientific discussions, and general discourse. While versatile, it should be used judiciously, ensuring a true contradiction exists rather than a mere unexpected outcome. Alternatives include "it appears to be contradictory" and "it gives the impression of a paradox", offering subtle variations in emphasis. The phrase's frequency in authoritative sources underscores its value in clearly communicating complex ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it appears to be contradictory

Changes the opening and focuses on the observation of contradiction.

it gives the impression of a paradox

Shifts the focus to the impression created, rather than a definitive statement.

it has the hallmarks of a paradox

Highlights the characteristics that define a paradox.

it presents itself as a paradox

Emphasizes the way something is presented or perceived.

it is seemingly paradoxical

Uses an adverb to soften the statement, suggesting a possible but not certain paradox.

it strikes one as a paradox

Focuses on the subjective experience of perceiving a paradox.

it smacks of paradox

Informal phrasing indicating a strong suggestion of paradox.

it suggests a contradiction

Replaces "paradox" with the more general term "contradiction".

it hints at a paradox

Implies a subtle or veiled paradox.

it borders on the paradoxical

Suggests something is close to being a paradox, but not quite.

FAQs

How can I use "it seems like a paradox" in a sentence?

Use "it seems like a paradox" to introduce a statement or situation that appears self-contradictory, such as, "It seems like a paradox that we work harder to have more free time, yet often feel more stressed."

What are some alternatives to "it seems like a paradox"?

You can use alternatives like "it appears to be contradictory", "it gives the impression of a paradox", or "it is seemingly paradoxical" to express a similar idea.

Is it correct to say "it seems like a paradox," or should I use a different phrasing?

"It seems like a paradox" is grammatically correct and widely used. Other options include "it strikes one as a paradox" or "it suggests a contradiction", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "it seems like a paradox" and "it is a paradox"?

"It seems like a paradox" implies an apparent contradiction that may not be a true paradox upon closer examination. "It is a paradox" asserts that a genuine contradiction exists. Using "it seems like a paradox" allows for further exploration and analysis.