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paradox

/ˈparədɒks/noun

A statement that appears to contradict itself yet might still be true.

Example sentences

  • “It's a strange paradox that the busiest people often find the most free time.”
  • “The paradox of choice is that more options can make people less happy.”

Loosely used for any surprising contradiction; logicians reserve it for statements that genuinely defeat themselves.

Featured as word of the day on April 28, 2026.

Synonyms for paradox

  • contradiction

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