Words / B2

kontr-uh-DIKSHUN/ˌkɒntrəˈdɪkʃn/

A contradiction is a difference between two facts or statements that cannot both be true: a contradiction in the reports, in contradiction to. Conflict is broader (a clash); inconsistency is a close cousin; paradox is a seeming contradiction with a twist. Contradict is the verb. In speech, they cannot both be right is enough. A contradiction is logical, not merely a disagreement of taste. Do not call two different preferences a contradiction.

Meaning

A difference between two facts or statements that cannot both be true.

Examples

• “There is a contradiction in the two reports.”
• “There is a contradiction in the two reports: one says the room was free, the other booked.”
• “Her calm advice stood in contradiction to the panic in the group chat.”

Good to know

Two claims that cannot both be true. Verb: contradict. Everyday: they cannot both be right. Close: inconsistency. Contrast: disagreement of taste; paradox.

Near in meaning

inconsistency

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