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Paradox
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What Is a Paradox? (Meaning and Examples)
A paradox is a statement or a concept that is, or seems to be, self-contradictory.
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Easy Examples of Paradox
- I always lie. (This statement is absolutely self-contradictory. If it's true, then it's not true. This would be accepted as a paradox in the field of Logic.)
- You can save money by spending it. (The idea seems self-contradictory, but it's possibly true. For example, spending money insulating your roof would reduce heating bills.)
Real-Life Examples of "Everyday" Paradox
These next examples seem self-contradictory, but they're not. (Paradoxical expressions that seem self-contradictory but aren't are often described as "everyday paradox" as opposed to "logical paradox.") These are examples of "everyday paradox":- To shut down your computer, first click Start.
- You have to be cruel to be kind.
- Less is more.
- When you increase your knowledge, you understand how little you know. (In essence, your unknown unknowns become known unknowns.)
Real-Life Examples of "Logical" Paradox
The following examples are absolutely self-contradictory. They are examples of "logical paradox."- My nose will grow. (Pinocchio)
- If you didn't get this message, call me.
- Your mission is to not accept this mission? Do you accept?
- No keyboard detected. Press F1 to continue.
- Youth would be an ideal state if it came a little later in life. (Prime Minister Herbert Asquith)
An Oxymoron Is a Paradox
An oxymoron (a seemingly self-contradicting term) is a paradox (usually "everyday" paradox).- female gunman
- fresh raisins
- bittersweet
- escaped prisoner
Video Lesson
Here is a short video summarizing the what we mean by "paradox":Why Understanding "Paradox" Is Important
A paradoxical expression that seems self-contradictory but isn't can be impactful and memorable as it compels your readers to work out for themselves why your seemingly self-contradictory idea is true.- We must go backwards to go forwards. (This is a memorable way of delivering a message like "we must align our old processes to the new methodology" or "we must rethink our strategy".)
Key Point
- Expressing your idea as a seemingly contradictory concept will make it more memorable by compelling your readers to think about why your idea is not a "logical paradox".
- Do you disagree with something on this page?
- Did you spot a typo?
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