# paradox

/ˈpɛɹəˌdɑks/ (US) · /pˈæɹədˌɒks/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/paradox
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. logical contradiction

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a statement that seems to say two opposite things at once, making it seem impossible.

For teachers: a statement that is apparently self-contradictory or logically unacceptable but may express a latent truth.

- The 'liar paradox' is a famous example: if I say 'I am lying,' am I telling the truth?
- 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.

Usage: Often used with 'the' to refer to specific named problems in logic or science.

### 2. contradictory situation

noun · CEFR B2

a situation that has two opposite qualities that make it difficult to understand.

For teachers: a situation or event that combines contradictory features or qualities.

- It is a paradox that such a wealthy country has so many people living in poverty.
- The paradox of the modern workplace is that despite having more labour-saving technology than ever, employees report feeling more overworked than previous generations.

### 3. contradictory person

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

a person who has qualities that do not seem to go together.

For teachers: a person whose character or behaviour is composed of seemingly incompatible traits.

- He is a paradox: a very shy man who loves performing on stage in front of thousands.
- The novelist was a fascinating paradox, known for her ruthless public persona while privately maintaining a reputation for extraordinary generosity and warmth.

## Examples

- It is a paradox that computers need maintenance to save us time.
- The paradox of modern technology is that it connects us globally while often isolating us from our immediate neighbours.
- The philosopher spent his career exploring the liar paradox, demonstrating how self-referential statements can fundamentally break the formal systems designed to contain them.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.