What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
paradoxal
Example
The idea of a square circle is paradoxal. [paradoxal: adjective]
Example
His argument was paradoxal, but upon closer examination, it made sense. [paradoxal: adjective]
paradoxical
Example
It's paradoxical that the more choices we have, the harder it is to make a decision. [paradoxical: adjective]
Example
The paradoxical nature of time travel is that if you change the past, you may not exist in the future. [paradoxical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Paradoxical is more commonly used than paradoxal in everyday language. Paradoxical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while paradoxal is less common and may be seen as more technical or academic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between paradoxal and paradoxical?
Both paradoxal and paradoxical can be used in formal and informal contexts, but paradoxical is more commonly used in everyday language and may be considered more casual.
