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contradictory

adjective

/ˌkɒn trəˈdɪk tə ri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of contradictory

Marked by a fundamental inconsistency or opposition, often creating confusion or conflict.
"His actions were contradictory to his stated beliefs, leaving everyone confused."

Detailed meaning of contradictory

It describes something that is in direct contrast or conflict with another element, exhibiting conflicting qualities, beliefs, or ideas that cannot coexist harmoniously. When two or more contradictory elements or ideas are present, they negate or undermine each other, resulting in a state of contradiction that challenges logical or rational understanding. The term 'contradictory' highlights the inherent clash or contradiction between different aspects, making it difficult to reconcile or find a common ground.

Example sentences containing contradictory

1. The politician's speeches were filled with contradictory statements, making it hard to trust their words.
2. The scientific findings presented contradictory evidence, leading to further investigation.
3. She had contradictory emotions about the situation, torn between anger and compassion.
4. The witness provided contradictory testimonies, casting doubt on their credibility.
5. The newspaper articles presented contradictory opinions on the government's policies.
6. The CEO's decisions were contradictory to the company's values, causing discontent among employees.

History and etymology of contradictory

The adjective 'contradictory' derives its meaning from the noun 'contradiction' and shares its etymological roots. 'Contradictory' is formed by adding the suffix '-y' to 'contradiction.' The base word, 'contradiction,' has its origins in the Latin word 'contradictio,' which is constructed from 'contra' meaning 'against' and 'dicere' meaning 'to speak' or 'to say.' This etymology effectively conveys the essence of 'contradictory' as something marked by a fundamental inconsistency or opposition, often creating confusion or conflict. It implies the presence of conflicting elements, statements, or ideas that speak or assert against each other, resulting in a lack of harmony or coherence. The term 'contradictory' maintains its etymological connection to the concept of speaking or asserting against, emphasizing the inherent conflict and inconsistency within the subject matter.

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Further usage examples of contradictory

1. The artist's paintings reflected a contradictory blend of vibrant colors and somber themes.
2. The research findings were contradictory, with some studies supporting the hypothesis and others refuting it.
3. His behavior was contradictory, alternating between extreme confidence and self-doubt.
4. The novel's protagonist had contradictory desires, torn between love and ambition.
5. The jury struggled to reach a verdict due to contradictory evidence presented during the trial.
6. His contradictory statements left everyone puzzled and frustrated.
7. The weather forecast for the weekend is quite contradictory.
8. Their contradictory views on politics often led to heated debates.
9. The evidence presented in court was highly contradictory.
10. Her contradictory behavior made it hard to trust her.
11. The contradictory instructions confused the assembly line workers.
12. Their contradictory goals hindered progress on the project.
13. The movie's contradictory plot twists kept viewers guessing.
14. The politician's contradictory promises raised doubts among voters.
15. The contradictory findings in the research study raised eyebrows.
16. The manager's contradictory feedback left the team perplexed.
17. The contradictory rules created chaos at the event.
18. The artist's contradictory styles made their work unique.
19. The contradictory advice from experts left me unsure.
20. The contradictory information in the user manual frustrated customers.
21. His contradictory attitude towards the project caused delays.
22. The contradictory signals from the stock market created uncertainty.
23. The contradictory demands of the job wore him down.
24. The contradictory testimonies in the trial complicated matters.
25. The contradictory emotions in her eyes told a complex story.