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  3. /contradiction

contradiction

UK/kɒntrə'dɪkʃ(ə)n/US/.kɒntrә'dikʃәn/
IELTSB2

Definitions

n.

A statement or situation in which two things conflict and cannot both be true

矛盾;自相矛盾

Root Breakdown

Root-derived
contra-against, opposite
+
dictsay, speak, declare; point out
+
-ionact, process, state
=contradiction

contradict + -ion (state) = the state of two things saying against each other. A contradiction in terms is a phrase that defeats itself, like 'a silent shout.'

Root dic still carries 82 more words

Common Collocations

  • 1.internal contradiction内部矛盾
  • 2.apparent contradiction表面上的矛盾
  • 3.contradiction in terms措辞上的矛盾

Example Sentences

  • 1.

    There's a clear contradiction between what he says and what he does.

  • 2.

    Saying you love freedom but hate choice is a contradiction in terms.

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