contradictory

[kon-truh-dik-tuh-ree]

adjective

1. asserting the contrary or opposite; contradicting; inconsistent; logically opposite.

   contradictory statements.

   Synonyms: paradoxical, irreconcilable

2. tending or inclined to contradict.

noun

plural

contradictories 

1. Logic.,  a proposition so related to a second that it is impossible for both to be true or both to be false.

contradictory

/ ˌkɒntrəˈdɪktərɪ /

adjective

1. inconsistent; incompatible

2. given to argument and contention

   a contradictory person

3. logic (of a pair of statements) unable both to be true or both to be false under the same circumstances Compare contrary subcontrary

noun

1. logic a statement that cannot be true when a given statement is true or false when it is false

Other Word Forms

• contradictorily adverb
• contradictoriness noun
• intercontradictory adjective
• noncontradictory adjective
• uncontradictory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of contradictory¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Late Latin contrādictōrius; equivalent to contradict + -ory ¹

Example Sentences

The contradictory findings have since triggered a bitter conflict within local law enforcement.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Some investors said the numbers were both stale and contradictory, giving little guidance on what to expect from a divided Fed next month.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“A moment ago you were afraid it would be ruined. Now you say it is worthless. I find your arguments somewhat contradictory.”

Read more on Literature

Wittgenstein’s central thesis is bold and bracing, while his gnomic aphorisms invite multiple, contradictory interpretations.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“The contradictory messaging has confused markets, and the next December meeting appears to be a close call,” Nomura said, adding that it expects another 25-basis-point cut this year, and another in February.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• antithetical 
• conflicting 
• contrary 
• incompatible 
• inconsistent 
• paradoxical