Cool MateContradiction vs Paradox
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Contradiction
Top 2,000 (common)C1noun
Paradox
Top 3,000 (common)
Most common: Contradiction
| Contradiction | Paradox | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃn/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˌkɑːntrəˈdɪkʃn/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ˈpær.ə.dɒks//🇺🇸 //ˈpær.ə.dɑːks// |
| Meaning | A statement that says two things that cannot both be true. | A situation that seems impossible or contradictory. |
| Example | There is a contradiction between the two sets of figures. | The 'jumbo shrimp' is a classic example of a paradox. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 3,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | complete, direct, flat, in contradiction to, in contradiction with, contradiction between, a contradiction in terms | paradox of choice, logical paradox, paradoxical situation |
| Antonyms | agreement, consistency | certainty, ordinary, truth |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'contradiction' with 'controversy', Using it as a verb instead of a noun, Mispronouncing the word and stressing the wrong syllable | Confused with 'contradiction', which means simply opposing ideas., Using 'paradox' when describing something that is merely ironic or unexpected., Assuming 'paradox' only refers to logical statements, overlooking its broader use. |
| Usage notes | Use 'contradiction' when discussing beliefs or statements that oppose each other. It's suitable for formal discussions, debates, and academic writing but may feel too formal in casual conversations. | Use 'paradox' in academic or casual conversations to describe surprising contradictions. Avoid overusing in informal contexts. |
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Frequently asked questions: Contradiction vs Paradox
What's the difference between Contradiction and Paradox?
Contradiction: A statement that says two things that cannot both be true. Paradox: A situation that seems impossible or contradictory.
Which is more common: Contradiction and Paradox?
Contradiction is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Contradiction: There is a contradiction between the two sets of figures. Paradox: The 'jumbo shrimp' is a classic example of a paradox.
Can I use Contradiction and Paradox interchangeably?
Not always. Contradiction and Paradox are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.