paradox
word
Definition
A paradox is a statement or situation that seems impossible or self-contradictory, but might actually be true or make sense.
Usage & Nuances
Most common in academic, philosophical, or intellectual contexts. Used to describe puzzling situations ('the paradox of choice'). Collocations: 'present a paradox', 'paradoxical situation', 'apparent paradox'. Sometimes confused with 'irony', but 'paradox' involves logical contradiction.
Example Sentences
The story has a famous paradox.
basic
He explained the paradox of technology making life easier and harder at the same time.
natural
It's a strange paradox—sometimes you have to give up control to gain control.
natural
‘Less is more’ is a common paradox.
basic
It is a paradox that saving more money sometimes makes people less happy.
basic
Life is full of little paradoxes that make you think.
natural