Words / C2

uh-PORR-ee-uh/əˈpɔːriə/

Aporia is an irresolvable internal contradiction or a state of puzzlement (formal / literary): an aporia in the argument, aporia over the menu. A contradiction (already in the dictionary) is two claims that cannot both be true; a paradox (already in the dictionary) is a true-seeming contradiction — the close twin of a puzzle that may still hold. A dilemma and a quandary (already in the dictionary) are a choice between two hard options, and a difficult uncertain choice. An impasse (already in the dictionary) is a deadlock with no way forward. Confused (already in the dictionary) is everyday mixed up. This batch: to adduce is to cite evidence; anomie is missing norms, not a logical stall. Biscuits are not a flame-risk close-out.

Meaning

An irresolvable internal contradiction or a state of puzzlement (formal / literary).

Examples

• “Aporia over the biscuit menu is not a flame-risk close-out.”
• “A contradiction is two claims that cannot both be true (already in B2). A paradox is a true-seeming contradiction (already in C1). A dilemma is a choice between two hard options (already in B2). A quandary is a difficult uncertain choice (already in C1). An impasse is a deadlock (already in C1). Confused is mixed up (already in A2). To adduce is to cite as evidence (this batch). Anomie is missing norms (this batch). A dated flame-risk line can still be calm. Puzzlement that never names the owner of the door is noise. Name the warden; leave the menu for the social.”

Good to know

An irresolvable puzzle or deadlock. Everyday: confused (already in this dictionary). Close: contradiction (already in B2); paradox (already in C1); dilemma / quandary / impasse (already in this dictionary). This batch: adduce; anomie. Biscuits ≠ a flame.

Near in meaning

impasse, paradox, puzzlement, stalemate

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