paradoxical

Definition

adj. describing something that seems impossible because it contains two opposite ideas, but is actually true. You use this word when a result is the exact opposite of what you expect.

adj. containing seemingly contradictory features or qualities that may nonetheless be true in reality. Often used to describe situations where an expected outcome is inverted.

simple

“It is paradoxical that drinking more water can reduce water retention.”

contextual

“The paradoxical nature of the policy meant that trying to save money actually cost the company more in the long run.”

complex

“In a paradoxical twist of economic theory, the sudden increase in the price of the staple grain led impoverished consumers to buy more of it, abandoning expensive meat entirely.”

Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb. Frequently followed by a 'that' clause when introducing a contradictory situation.