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contradiction in terms

Idioms

A statement that seems to contradict itself, with one part of it denying another. For example, I've always believed that “a poor millionaire” was a contradiction in terms. [Late 1700s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

According to your predilection, this designation will seem either a contradiction in terms or a natural state of affairs …

From Slate • Jun. 6, 2025

Despite having been converted by a gangster, he regards the idea of religious criminals as a contradiction in terms.

From BBC • Dec. 20, 2024

And so there’s an intrinsic optimism to the form; a depressing multi-camera sitcom is a contradiction in terms, “Seinfeld” notwithstanding.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 17, 2024

Now, "it's a brand new old movie palace, if that's not a contradiction in terms," Nicita added.

From Reuters • Nov. 8, 2023

Madeline: "Good limerick" is a contradiction in terms.

From "Everything, Everything" by Nicola Yoon

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023