antinomy

[ an-tin-uh-mee ]

noun

, plural an·tin·o·mies.

1. opposition between one law, principle, rule, etc., and another.
2. Philosophy. a contradiction between two statements, both apparently obtained by correct reasoning.

antinomy

/ ænˈtɪnəmɪ; ˌæntɪˈnɒmɪk /

noun

1. opposition of one law, principle, or rule to another; contradiction within a law
2. philosophy contradiction existing between two apparently indubitable propositions; paradox

Derived Forms

• antinomic, adjective
• ˌantiˈnomically, adverb

Other Words From

• an·ti·nom·ic [an-ti-, nom, -ik], anti·nomi·cal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of antinomy¹

1585–95; < Latin antinomia < Greek antinomía a contradiction between laws. See anti-, -nomy

Word History and Origins

Origin of antinomy¹

C16: from Latin antinomia, from Greek: conflict between laws, from anti- + nomos law

Example Sentences

It is even sought to reconcile the antinomy of freedom vs. God's foreknowledge.

From Project Gutenberg

It is a mighty antinomy indeed, on a scale adapted to Tolstoy's giant imagination.

From Project Gutenberg

But, for the most part, this unfortunate antinomy in the sciences is connected with their historical development.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, one day M. Hadamard came to see me and the talk fell upon this antinomy.

From Project Gutenberg

After having set forth the antinomy we have called Richard's antinomy, he gives its explanation.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• action
• hostility
• resistance
• struggle