paradoxical role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "paradoxical role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or position that has contradictory or opposing elements, often highlighting complexity or irony. Example: "The scientist played a paradoxical role in the debate, advocating for both the benefits and risks of genetic engineering."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The increasing instability should push Nato to re-evaluate the alliance's paradoxical role in Afghanistan.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Julien acknowledges the paradoxical role of desire within interracial relations.

The New York Times

It is here that we can see the paradoxical role of genetic research in modern society.

The Guardian

He wondered how to navigate his paradoxical role as a "subject in the drama rather than a witness".

The New Yorker

With the signing of D'Antoni to replace Thomas, Walsh makes a statement that the Knicks will no longer play the paradoxical role of 21st century hicks.

The New York Times

Curtis Milliron, a senior biologist at the fish and game department, pointed out that historically the agency has played a dual, sometimes paradoxical role.

The New York Times - Science

Senator Phil Gramm of Texas, the president's chief Senate supporter in changing the Civil Service protections in the bill, acknowledged that Democrats had written 95percentt of the bill and acknowledged the paradoxical role of small-government Republicans like him in advocating for such a large department.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Lastly, paradoxical roles for CREBBP/EP300 have been described recently.

Protein & Cell

The immune environment at the maternal fetal interface has seemingly paradoxical roles.

Plosone

Following the development and setting-up of the model described in this paper, in Part B we investigate the profound roles of TGF-β1 during epidermal wound healing and explore different hypotheses about the apparently paradoxical roles of this growth factor.

Plosone

These seemingly paradoxical roles for PAR2 in inflammation have been based mainly on observations of PAR2-activating peptides with low potency and uncertain receptor selectivity, and so there remains doubt about whether both pro- and anti- inflammatory properties can truly be ascribed to PAR2 activation.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "paradoxical role", ensure the context clearly explains the conflicting aspects or apparent contradictions involved. Provide specific examples to illustrate the paradoxical nature of the role.

Common error

Avoid using "paradoxical role" without fully explaining the seemingly contradictory elements. A mere mention of the phrase without clarifying the paradox can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paradoxical role" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "paradoxical" modifies the noun "role". This phrase describes a situation or entity that has seemingly contradictory or conflicting functions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "paradoxical role" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe situations with inherent contradictions or conflicting aspects. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is frequently found in scientific and journalistic contexts, highlighting its relevance in analyzing complex phenomena. To ensure clarity, provide specific examples that illustrate the contradictory nature of the role, avoid oversimplifying the inherent tensions. Alternative phrases such as "contradictory function" or "inconsistent position" can be used depending on the context. By understanding its proper usage, writers can effectively convey the complexities of multifaceted roles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Contradictory function

This alternative focuses on the conflicting aspects of the role itself.

Inconsistent position

This alternative emphasizes the lack of alignment within the role.

Anomalous responsibility

This emphasizes the unusual and unexpected nature of the duties.

Self-contradictory part

This alternative highlights the internal conflict within the role.

Conflicting involvement

This phrase points out the clash of different elements in the participation.

Ironic capacity

This alternative draws attention to the unexpected or opposite outcome of the role.

Ambivalent duty

This emphasizes the mixed feelings or uncertainty associated with the responsibility.

Dichotomous assignment

This highlights the division or contrast inherent in the given task.

Opposing impact

This alternative suggests that the role has both positive and negative effects.

Dualistic obligation

This emphasizes that the role has two distinct and often opposing aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "paradoxical role" in a sentence?

You can use "paradoxical role" to describe situations where someone or something has seemingly contradictory functions. For example, "The regulator played a "paradoxical role", both promoting and restricting market activity."

What's the difference between "paradoxical role" and "ironic role"?

"Paradoxical role" describes a situation with inherent contradictions, while "ironic role" suggests a situation where the outcome is the opposite of what was expected. An "ironic role" often involves a twist of fate, while a "paradoxical role" involves simultaneous conflicting aspects.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "paradoxical role"?

Alternatives include "contradictory function", "inconsistent position", or "anomalous responsibility", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is the phrase "paradoxical role" commonly used?

The phrase "paradoxical role" is commonly used in scientific and academic writing to describe complex phenomena with seemingly contradictory aspects. It also appears in news and media when discussing situations with inherent tensions.