seeming contradiction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeming contradiction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or statement that appears to be contradictory at first glance but may have an underlying explanation or truth. Example: "The scientist presented a seeming contradiction in her findings, which puzzled the audience until she clarified her methodology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What explains this seeming contradiction?

The Washington Post

Which invites a question and also offers a seeming contradiction.

The Economist

There is a straightforward explanation behind the seeming contradiction Mr. Kassar cites.

The New York Times

That seeming contradiction highlights the quandary in which the Bush administration now finds itself.

The New York Times

In seeming contradiction, they then argued that "the construction of a minaret has no religious meaning".

The Guardian

"That shows our objectivity," Ms. Manee said, laughing, when asked about the seeming contradiction.

The New York Times

Yet I trust that your Pythonesque appreciation of paradox will pierce through the seeming contradiction.

The Guardian - Books

In seeming contradiction of his published persona, he was considered to be a charming and courteous man.

The New York Times - Arts

Asked about the seeming contradiction, Growth Energy provided a letter from a Ford executive to an ethanol supplier.

The New York Times

The further back they looked with the VLT, the larger alpha seemed to be in seeming contradiction to the result they had obtained with the Keck.

The Economist

"But I said, 'What else is there for us?' " Atheist leaders acknowledge the seeming contradiction of nonbelievers seeking to become chaplains or receive recognition from the chaplain corps.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seeming contradiction" to introduce an element that appears contradictory on the surface but can be resolved with further explanation or context.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "seeming contradiction" is automatically false; explore possible explanations before dismissing it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeming contradiction" functions as a noun modifier, typically introducing a statement or situation that appears contradictory or paradoxical at first glance. It sets up an expectation that the contradiction may be resolved or explained.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seeming contradiction" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce an apparent inconsistency that requires further examination. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and a wealth of examples demonstrates its frequent usage in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While similar phrases like "apparent paradox" or "ostensible inconsistency" can be used, "seeming contradiction" is versatile and widely understood. When using this phrase, ensure that you explore potential resolutions rather than immediately dismissing the apparent contradiction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeming paradox

Simple synonym, interchanging contradiction with paradox.

apparent paradox

This phrase emphasizes the paradoxical nature of the situation.

ostensible inconsistency

This highlights the inconsistency that is outwardly visible.

superficial inconsistency

Highlights that the inconsistency is not deep or fundamental.

superficial contradiction

Focuses on the contradiction being only on the surface.

outward discrepancy

Focuses on the difference being noticed externally.

perceived discrepancy

This suggests the contradiction is based on perception.

apparent conflict

Replaces "contradiction" with "conflict", suggesting a clash or opposition that seems evident.

alleged contradiction

Suggests the contradiction is claimed but not necessarily proven.

illusory paradox

Emphasizes that the paradox is not real.

FAQs

How can I use "seeming contradiction" in a sentence?

Use "seeming contradiction" to describe something that appears to conflict with itself or with common sense, but might have a reasonable explanation. For example: "There's a "seeming contradiction" between her words and her actions."

What's a good alternative to "seeming contradiction"?

Alternatives include "apparent paradox", "ostensible inconsistency", or "superficial contradiction", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What does "seeming contradiction" imply about the contradiction?

The phrase "seeming contradiction" suggests that what appears to be a contradiction may not actually be one upon closer examination or with more information.

Is there a difference between "seeming contradiction" and "actual contradiction"?

Yes, a "seeming contradiction" suggests the conflict is superficial, while an "actual contradiction" indicates a genuine and irresolvable conflict. It's important to investigate before assuming it is an actual contradiction.