Contradiction: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'contradiction' to describe a situation where two statements or ideas directly oppose each other, often creating a logical impossibility.

• There is a clear contradiction between his earlier statements and what he is saying now.
• The theory is full of contradictions and doesn't make any sense.

Use 'inconsistency' to describe something that lacks uniformity or steadiness, often referring to irregularities in behavior, performance, or quality.

• Her inconsistency in showing up to meetings has become a problem.
• There is an inconsistency in the way the rules are applied.

Use 'conflict' to describe a situation where there is a struggle, clash, or disagreement between people, groups, or ideas.

• The conflict between the two countries has been ongoing for years.
• She felt a conflict between her career ambitions and her desire to start a family.

Use 'discrepancy' to describe a situation where there is a difference or inconsistency between two or more pieces of information or data that should match.

• There is a discrepancy between the recorded data and the actual numbers.
• The auditor found several discrepancies in the financial reports.

Used when referring to statements, ideas, or actions that are directly opposed to each other.

• There seems to be a contradiction in your argument.
• It was a blatant contradiction to what he said earlier.

Use 'contradiction' when referring to a direct inconsistency between two statements or ideas. It suggests that the two elements cannot both be true at the same time.

• The politician's promises were a contradiction of his previous actions.
• There is a contradiction between his words and his deeds.

Use 'reversal' to describe a complete change in direction or position, typically from good to bad or vice versa. It implies a significant and often sudden transformation.

• The team's fortunes saw a dramatic reversal after the new coach was hired.
• Her decision marked a reversal of previous commitments.

Use 'opposition' for a situation where there is active resistance or disagreement against something or someone. It can apply in politics, debates or any scenario with conflicting parties.

• There was strong opposition to the new policy.
• The scientist faced opposition from his peers.

Use 'antithesis' when discussing a person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else. It often involves a contrast of ideas in literature or rhetoric.

• Her gentleness is the antithesis of his aggressiveness.
• The character serves as the antithesis to the protagonist.