contradictory - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contradictory Word Meanings
- involving contradictory statements
- inconsistent or opposed
- expressing the opposite.
contradictory Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contradictory Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.tər.i/
US
/ˌkɑn.trəˈdɪk.tɚ.i/
contradictory Word Etymology
contra- = against + dict = speak. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Picture someone arguing fiercely, each word contradicting the last one, creating a mental clash.
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 InputReal Context
Contradictory describes statements, claims, or situations that cannot all be true at once because they oppose each other. In English, it is stronger than merely inconsistent, stressing direct opposition between ideas. Learners often confuse contradictory with inconsistent or with controversial; the nuance is about clashes in the content, not just a mistake in logic. You might hear a contradictory account in a debate, or see a contradictory sign in a policy brief that says two opposite things about the same issue. Collocations include contradictory evidence, contradictory statements, and inherently contradictory arguments. Use it when you want to signal a clear clash between claims.
Usage Reminders
- Remember that contradictory stresses opposition between claims
- Do not use contradictory for simply inaccurate data; use it for direct clash
- Check the context to decide if two ideas actually oppose each other
- Avoid overusing the word in neutral summaries
- Pair with adjectives like inherently or logically when fitting
- Compare with inconsistent to judge strength of disagreement
Common Misconceptions
- Contradictory means simply false
- It only applies to verbal statements, not written ones
- Anything surprising is automatically contradictory
- If two facts repeat, they are contradictory
- Contradictory and inconsistent are interchangeable
Thinking Differences
In English, we often separate 'contradictory' from milder words like 'inconsistent' or 'ambivalent'; learners tend to overapply it to any minor clash, or confuse it with 'controversial'.
Learning Tips
- Parse the sentence to identify opposing claims
- Compare with inconsistent to gauge strength of clash
- Look for cue words like 'but', 'however', or 'yet'
- Practice with paired statements one positive, one negative
- Use with adjectives like inherently, logically for precision
- Check the overall context to avoid over-simplifying
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'contradictory'?
A.Happy
B.In agreement
C.Opposing
D.Fast
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'contradictory' used correctly?
A.She was contradictory to the plan.
B.His actions were contradictory to his words.
C.Contradictory weather spoiled the picnic.
D.The contradictory dog barked loudly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is an antonym of 'contradictory'?
A.Conforming
B.Similar
C.Contrasting
D.Agreeable
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you encounter something contradictory?
A.Following a recipe
B.Reading a mystery novel
C.Listening to conflicting news reports
D.Attending a music concert
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a situation where you experienced something contradictory.
A.Running in a marathon
B.Discussing politics with friends
C.Choosing what to eat for dinner
D.Planning a vacation
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