paradox
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a statement that seems to say two opposite things at once, making it seem impossible.
a statement that is apparently self-contradictory or logically unacceptable but may express a latent truth.
Simple“The 'liar paradox' is a famous example: if I say 'I am lying,' am I telling the truth?”
In context“The twin paradox in physics challenges our intuitive understanding of time by suggesting that a space traveller would age more slowly than their earthbound sibling.”
UsageOften used with 'the' to refer to specific named problems in logic or science.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a situation that has two opposite qualities that make it difficult to understand.
a situation or event that combines contradictory features or qualities.
Simple“It is a paradox that such a wealthy country has so many people living in poverty.”
In context“The paradox of the modern workplace is that despite having more labour-saving technology than ever, employees report feeling more overworked than previous generations.”
Antonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
a person who has qualities that do not seem to go together.
a person whose character or behaviour is composed of seemingly incompatible traits.
Simple“He is a paradox: a very shy man who loves performing on stage in front of thousands.”
In context“The novelist was a fascinating paradox, known for her ruthless public persona while privately maintaining a reputation for extraordinary generosity and warmth.”
“This puzzle—a balmy Earth under a cooler, dimmer sun—is known as the Faint Young Sun paradox.”
From Middle French paradoxe, from Latin paradoxum, from Ancient Greek παράδοξος (parádoxos, “unexpected, strange”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.