contradiction in terms

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

contradiction in terms

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

We’re not going to try to define freakiness here, since it would almost be a contradiction in terms to suggest that anyone has to adhere to certain standards to qualify.

From New York Times ● Dec. 3, 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

But I found Izzy's mom to be a contradiction in terms.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi