paradoxical - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
paradoxical Word Meanings
- In a way that seems contradictory, yet often true.
- In an unexpected or surprising manner.
paradoxical Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
- It is paradoxical that we need to save money but want to buy many things.
- The weather was paradoxical; it was cold in summer.
- His cheerful smile was paradoxical to his sad story.
- It seems paradoxical to relax when you have much work.
- The result was paradoxical; they lost even though they tried hard.
paradoxical Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌpær.əˈdɒk.sɪ.kəl/
US
/ˌpær.əˈdɑː.k.sɪ.kəl/
paradoxical Word Etymology
para- = beside/against, doxa = opinion; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person standing beside a contradictory statement, puzzled at how it can be both true and false.
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
Paradoxical describes something that seems self-contradictory at first glance, yet can be true or insightful when you look closer. You might hear that a paradoxical situation reveals a hidden logic, or that ordinary beliefs are challenged by unusual outcomes. In everyday speech, people use it to flag ideas that feel counterintuitive but have merit, such as trends that worsen when you try to fix them, or a rule that appears to break as soon as you test it. Because the word locks a tension between opposite ideas, it invites careful listening and precise emphasis. The related adverb paradoxically is common when describing actions rather than qualities.
Usage Reminders
- Use paradoxical to describe a situation that seems contradictory but is true
- Remember paradoxically is the adverb form you should use for actions
- Pair with concrete examples to show the hidden logic
- Avoid overusing it in casual talk; reserve for clear tension
- Differentiate from ironic or merely contradictory statements
- Check your tone to avoid sounding judgmental
Common Misconceptions
- Paradoxical means something is impossible.
- It always implies irony or sarcasm.
- It can describe a person as a contradiction.
- Any contradiction is automatically paradoxical.
- It is interchangeable with 'contradictory' in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
In English, paradoxical often labels a situation or claim that sits oddly between intuition and reality, and learners tend to over-extend it to any surprising event rather than a genuine tension that can be resolved by closer inspection.
Learning Tips
- Compare paradoxical with ironic and contradictory; note when it signals hidden logic
- Create 3 own sentences using paradoxical and paradoxically
- Read academic sentences to see how tension is framed
- Practice paraphrasing: turn a paradox into a clear explanation
- Mark tone: formal or cautious when using the word
- Listen for speakers who use paradox to reveal insights
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'paradoxical' mean?
A.Something that seems contradictory but may actually be true
B.Something that is not true
C.A type of mathematical equation
D.A simple statement of fact
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'paradoxical' in a sentence.
A.The weather was paradoxical, as it was sunny and raining at the same time.
B.She had a paradoxical taste in music, enjoying both classical and heavy metal.
C.His statement was paradoxical, because he was late to the meeting, but he left early.
D.His paradoxical choices at the store were clearly a reflection of his simple preference.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'paradoxical'?
A.Linear
B.Contradictory
C.Obvious
D.Consistent
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'paradoxical'?
A.Complex
B.Clear
C.Confusing
D.Ambiguous
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where a situation might be described as paradoxical?
A.An athlete trained hard but ended up losing the competition.
B.A person saves money but buys expensive items.
C.A sunbather gets sunburned while applying sunscreen.
D.Someone works overtime but struggles to pay their bills.
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