Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act or an instance of contradicting oneself: A logical inconsistency within a single statement, argument, or set of ideas, where one part denies or conflicts with another part.
   • A statement or proposition containing such an inconsistency: A specific phrase or claim that is internally inconsistent and therefore cannot be logically true.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

Advanced Usage

• Logical Fallacy: In logic and rhetoric, a self-contradiction is a fundamental flaw that invalidates an argument because it asserts two mutually exclusive things.
• In Literature/Characterization: Used to describe a character whose actions or words are inconsistent, often to highlight confusion or hypocrisy.

Variants and Related Words

• Self-contradictory (Adjective): Characterized by or containing a self-contradiction.
• Contradiction (Noun): A more general term for a combination of statements, ideas, or features which are opposed to one another.

Synonyms

• Inconsistency: The fact or state of being inconsistent; lacking harmony or compatibility.
• Paradox: A seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated may prove to be well founded or true. (Note: A paradox may have an underlying truth, while a self-contradiction is simply an error.)

Related Phrases

• To be guilty of self-contradiction: To have committed the error of contradicting oneself.

Noun

1. contradicting yourself