What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contradictory
Example
Her actions were contradictory to her words. [contradictory: adjective]
Example
The evidence presented was contradictory to the defendant's testimony. [contradictory: adjective]
paradoxical
Example
It's paradoxical that the more we try to control things, the less control we have. [paradoxical: adjective]
Example
The paradoxical nature of the situation left everyone confused. [paradoxical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contradictory is more commonly used than paradoxical in everyday language, while paradoxical is more often used in academic or philosophical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contradictory and paradoxical?
Paradoxical is more formal than contradictory, and it is often used in academic or philosophical writing to describe complex ideas or concepts.
