paradox
A seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true
Examples
In a meeting
“We face a paradox: increasing quality control slows production but ultimately increases output.”
Over coffee
“It's a paradox that the more choices we have, the harder it is to choose.”
Why this word
contradiction
paradox is an apparent contradiction that may contain deeper truth or require resolution, while contradiction is simple logical inconsistency
irony
paradox is a logical puzzle where seemingly true premises yield contradictory conclusions, while irony is incongruity between expectation and reality
inconsistency
paradox involves seemingly valid reasoning leading to absurdity or self-contradiction, while inconsistency is simply lack of coherence
Usage tip
Use to highlight tension between two seemingly incompatible truths. Effective for framing complex problems.
Etymology
Greek 'paradoxon' meaning 'contrary to expectation'
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Related words
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole
syllogism
A logical argument with two premises leading to a conclusion
empiricism
The belief that knowledge comes from observation and experience
premise
An underlying assumption on which reasoning is based
dogma
A principle or belief accepted without question
ontology
The nature of being or categories of existence