Definition

1. Noun:
   • A seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true: A "paradox" is a statement, proposition, or situation that appears to be logically self-contradictory or absurd, yet may reveal a deeper truth upon examination.
   • A person, thing, or situation exhibiting contradictory qualities: It can also refer to an actual entity or circumstance that combines seemingly incompatible or opposing characteristics.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The statement "less is more" is a classic paradox.
  • It is a paradox that standing is more tiring than walking.
  • He was a paradox—a fiercely private man who craved public acclaim.

Advanced Usage

• Logical Paradox: A paradox arising from self-referential statements or definitions in logic and philosophy.

  • The "liar paradox" (e.g., "This statement is false") challenges fundamental logical principles.

• Paradox of Choice: A concept in psychology and economics suggesting that an abundance of choices can lead to anxiety and dissatisfaction.

  • The paradox of choice explains why shopping for jam can be stressful when there are too many flavors.

Variants and Related Words

• Paradoxical (adj): Having the nature of a paradox; seemingly contradictory.

  • It seems paradoxical that reducing speed limits can sometimes improve traffic flow.

• Paradoxically (adv): In a paradoxical manner.

  • Paradoxically, the treatment made him feel worse before he felt better.

Synonyms

• Contradiction: A direct opposition between things compared; inconsistency.
• Enigma: Something hard to understand or explain; a mystery.
• Anomaly: Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.

Related Phrases

• A living paradox: Used to describe a person who embodies contradictory traits.
  • The artist was a living paradox, creating serene works from a place of inner turmoil.

Related Idioms

• A paradox wrapped in an enigma: An expression (often a variation of "a riddle wrapped in a mystery") used to describe something profoundly puzzling and full of contradictions.
  • His motives remained a paradox wrapped in an enigma.

Noun

1. (logic) a statement that contradicts itself
   • `I always lie' is a paradox because if it is true it must be false