Paradox

What Is a Paradox? (Meaning and Examples)

A paradox is a statement or a concept that is, or seems to be, self-contradictory.

Printable and Sendable Test

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

Read more about oxymorons.

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