aporia Definition
- 1an expression of doubt or uncertainty, especially in a philosophical context
- 2an insoluble contradiction or paradox in a text's meaning
Using aporia: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "aporia" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The philosopher was grappling with an aporia in his argument.
Example
The text's aporia made it difficult to understand its intended meaning.
Phrases with aporia
a rhetorical device that involves feigning ignorance or doubt in order to raise questions or objections
Example
The politician used aporia in his speech to make his audience think more deeply about the issue at hand.
a narrative technique that involves creating a sense of uncertainty or confusion in the reader by presenting contradictory or ambiguous information
Example
The author used aporia in her novel to keep the reader engaged and questioning what was really happening.
Origins of aporia
from Greek 'aporía', meaning 'impasse'
Summary: aporia in Brief
'Aporia' [uh-pawr-ee-uh] is a term used in philosophy and literary criticism to describe expressions of doubt or uncertainty, as well as insoluble contradictions or paradoxes in texts. It can be used as a rhetorical device to raise questions or objections, as in 'The politician used aporia in his speech to make his audience think more deeply about the issue at hand.' In literature, it can create a sense of uncertainty or confusion in the reader, as in 'The author used aporia in her novel to keep the reader engaged and questioning what was really happening.'
