contradiction - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contradiction Word Meanings
- a statement that asserts two opposite things
- the act of contradicting
- a situation where two things cannot both be true
contradiction Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contradiction Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃən/
US
/ˌkɑːntrəˈdɪkʃən/
contradiction Word Etymology
con- = together + tradict = speak, assert; from Latin 'contradictio' meaning 'to speak against'. Imagine a courtroom where one lawyer contradicts another, emphasizing the tension of opposing arguments.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I press a page and turn it, watching two statements lean against each other. I shift one side, pull the other, and feel the tension tighten. I adjust my stance and hold the moment, sensing a clash that won’t settle until I choose a side. That tension becomes a living sense in real talk, when what one person says blocks what another hears.
Real Context
Contradiction is a statement or situation in which two claims oppose each other and cannot both be true at the same time. In logic, a contradiction means your premises imply something impossible. In everyday use, people call something a contradiction when two accounts or pieces of evidence do not align. The word also covers the act of contradicting, i. e., speaking against what someone has asserted. Learners often confuse contradiction with disagreement, thinking any opposing view is a contradiction, which leads to awkward phrasing or overcorrecting in conversation.
Usage Reminders
- Don't confuse contradiction with simple disagreement.
- A contradiction means two opposing statements cannot both be true.
- Look for internal inconsistency in claims or evidence.
- Use the verb 'contradict' to describe opposing statements.
- In logical arguments, a contradiction undermines the argument's validity.
Common Misconceptions
- A contradiction is the same as a disagreement.
- If something contradicts itself, it must be false.
- All opposing statements are contradictions.
- Contradictions only show up in logic puzzles.
- You can resolve a contradiction simply by choosing one side.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often separate logical contradiction from everyday disagreement, but learners may treat any opposing view as a contradiction. English draws a sharp line between truth conditions and rhetorical stance, so learners must use precise negation and maintain consistency across clauses.
Learning Tips
- Study contradictions in simple pairs (A and not A).
- Practice spotting self-contradictions in short texts.
- Learn common negation patterns (not, never, no) and their scope.
- Distinguish contradiction from disagreement with evidence.
- Use paraphrase to test if two statements remain incompatible.
- Read logic examples and note how conclusions follow or fail.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'contradiction' mean?
A.A state of agreement
B.A casual conversation
C.A direct opposition between two things
D.A feeling of happiness
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'contradiction' correctly?
A.The sunny weather was a contradiction to his mood.
B.She loves cats, but she is allergic to dogs, which is a contradiction.
C.He always walks to work, contradicting in driving.
D.Their friendship is full of contradictions.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'contradiction'?
A.Inconsistency
B.Consistency
C.Harmony
D.Agreement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'contradiction'?
A.Agreement
B.Coherence
C.Conformity
D.Resemblance
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'contradiction'?
A.Two friends having conflicting opinions on a movie plot.
B.Sharing the same favorite color with a friend.
C.Agreeing on the best restaurant to eat at.
D.Having similar tastes in music as your sibling.
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