The English word "contradiction"

 The word "contradiction" refers to a statement, idea, or situation that is opposite to or at odds with another. It implies a logical inconsistency or a direct opposition.

Here are several ways to use "contradiction" in sentences, categorized by its common meanings:

1. A statement or idea that is opposed to another statement or idea; a direct opposition:

• His claim to be an environmentalist is a contradiction to his habit of driving a gas-guzzling SUV. (Direct opposition between claim and habit)

• The two witnesses' testimonies were full of contradictions. (Their statements were at odds with each other)

• The politician's speech was a series of contradictions, making it hard to understand his actual stance. (Conflicting statements within the speech)

• There's an inherent contradiction in saying you support free speech while also trying to silence dissenting voices. (Logical inconsistency)

• The new policy is a direct contradiction of everything the party previously stood for. (Opposed to previous principles)

2. The act of asserting the contrary or opposite; a denial:

• She couldn't stand his constant contradiction of every point she made. (His continuous denial or opposition)

• His silence was interpreted as an admission, not a contradiction, of the accusation. (He didn't deny it)

3. A combination of statements, ideas, or features that are opposed to one another; an inconsistency:

• The novel explores the contradictions within human nature. (Inconsistencies or conflicting aspects of humanity)

• There's a curious contradiction between his public persona and his private life. (An inconsistency between two aspects)

• The economic report presented several contradictions, making its conclusions unreliable. (Conflicting data or findings)

• To resolve the problem, we must first understand the underlying contradictions. (The conflicting elements or forces)

Common Phrases and Collocations with "Contradiction":

• Direct contradiction: Emphasizes a clear and undeniable opposition.

• Inherent contradiction: Suggests that the inconsistency is built into the nature of something.

• Full of contradictions: Implies many inconsistencies.

• A glaring contradiction: A very obvious inconsistency.

• Resolve/Iron out contradictions: To fix or eliminate inconsistencies.

• Live in contradiction: To have beliefs or values that are opposed to one's actions.

• Contradiction in terms: A phrase where the words used are inherently opposite, making the phrase absurd (e.g., "a jumbo shrimp").

Example of "Contradiction in terms":

• "Military intelligence" is sometimes jokingly referred to as a contradiction in terms by those who find it an oxymoron.

• Saying "I love peace but I'm ready for war" can be seen as a contradiction in terms.

Tips for using "Contradiction":

• Focus on opposition: The core meaning is about things being opposite or clashing.

• Look for inconsistency: It often highlights where things don't logically align.

• Noun form: "Contradiction" is a noun. The verb is "contradict" (e.g., "His actions contradict his words"). The adjective is "contradictory" (e.g., "His statements are contradictory").

By using "contradiction" effectively, you can pinpoint and describe instances of opposition, inconsistency, and logical conflict in various contexts.